Holidays 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition
As the holidays approach, giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide us with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of our country's economy. This year could be different if we give the gift of genuine concern for our neighbors.
As the holidays approach, giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide us with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of our country's economy. This year could be different if we give the gift of genuine concern for our neighbors.
Isn't it time to think outside the box? Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese-produced wrapping paper? Everyone gets his/her hair cut. How about giving gift certificates from your local hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who want to get or keep in shape.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, locally owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Do you have a big gift budget? Perhaps a gift recipient would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or some rounds at the local golf course.
There are so many owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your parents, kiddos, friends aren't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast place? This isn't about big national chains -- this is about supporting your home town neighbors with their financial lives which are on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by a local working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom might LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
Computers can always use tune-ups, it seems, and I KNOW there are young people majoring in computer sciences who need extra cash for tuitions or owners of small computer businesses where there's someone who's struggling to get his repair business up and running.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, locally owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Do you have a big gift budget? Perhaps a gift recipient would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or some rounds at the local golf course.
There are so many owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your parents, kiddos, friends aren't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast place? This isn't about big national chains -- this is about supporting your home town neighbors with their financial lives which are on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by a local working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom might LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
Computers can always use tune-ups, it seems, and I KNOW there are young people majoring in computer sciences who need extra cash for tuitions or owners of small computer businesses where there's someone who's struggling to get his repair business up and running.
If you're looking for something more personal, how 'bout checking local craftspeople who spin their own wool and knit them into scarves or make jewelry, pottery, notecards with original photos? These are just a few suggestions. The list goes on and on.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre? Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? Why not use those bucks to tip the mailman, trash guy or babysitter?
Do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? Why not use those bucks to tip the mailman, trash guy or babysitter?
Let's think about a new holiday tradition--a simpler one, less materialistic, that helps our neighbors and allows us to be a part of our country's recovery.
Happy Holidays!
Something I might add to this is to give of yourself. There are many lonely people who appreciate sitting down to a dinner with a family. A note in a Christmas card offering a meal a month with someone who lives alone can be the greatest present of all. An offer to give rides to appointments or for shopping trips can mean so much to someone who can drive but would love to have company when shopping at the grocery store or somewhere else. I can only tell you the rewards you get from doing these things are immense.
1 comment:
Great post... I'm crying now. I've always giv'n liquor as gifts... didja know MD 20/20 comes in a multitude of flavors?
Though fat but in ok health, I think I could use a new liver if ya know someone who'd gimme one. Doh.
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