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As your desired gifts increase in price, make sure your appreciation increases too
‘Tis the season to get out the pen and paper, and to put your thinking cap on to come up with what to want Santa to bring you this year.
There were easier times, times when our lists would max out at $250, full of little gimmick toys that cost around $20 each. It was much easier for both us, and our parents’ wallets.
I remember being five or six, making my first Christmas list, filling it with things such as a Furby, the new Nintendo DS, and some more Pokémon cards. At no point while I was making the list did money, or the amount of gifts I was receiving cross my mind.
When I was nearing my 10th birthday, I became more interested in video games and things that were slightly more expensive. Along with that, I became more conscious about how many gifts I was receiving.
Nowadays, our lists have been whittled down to one, maybe two, things that are far more expensive. Most of us don’t realize how spoiled we actually are due to the fact that we get, and have gotten, everything we ask for.
English and speech teacher Krista McDonnough said that if her kids really show interest in something she will get it for them, but she doesn’t like to get them everything they want, and prefers to surprise them with gifts.
“When I was little, I remember focusing on one “big” present (big at the time being a baby doll) and being excited to get that present,” McDonnough said. “Nowadays, sadly, my kids are becoming more obsessed with how many gifts they get. Even if I were to get them one awesome toy, they would be a little upset because it was only one toy.”
So, when you’re writing your Christmas list this year, you should put some thought into what it takes to get you what you want. After you unwrap your presents on Christmas morning, make sure your parents know you appreciate all they do for you.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a Happy Kwanzaa.
