Thoughts on gift giving

It's that time of year again....the buying and giving time.....also known as Black Friday and Christmas.

Anyone who knows me well knows that I am not much of a lover of "stuff." I don't dress well, I don't decorate well and I don't collect. 

Please know that I'm not demeaning those who do. I just have to be me. 

In this the "middle" time of life (God willing!), I have to be true to myself instead of being what others what me to be. 

I've been told, "You are hard to buy for." 

I consider that a compliment. What I can't understand is why, if I don't need or want anything, others should want to give me stuff. I think the gift giving is often not meant to please the person receiving the gift but the person giving the gift. 

I assume I'm offending quite a few people at this time. I don't mean to. 

But it is true. If I don't want you to spend your money on me but you insist on doing so, then you are doing so for your own gratification, not mine. 

Sigh. I fear I will be misunderstood and offensive. It's just something I've needed to get off my chest. 

So, this, the day after Black Friday (biggest purchasing day of the year), think about why you are giving gifts. Think about whether they are needed or wanted or will end up in the Goodwill come January 15th. 

Just reflect. That's all the gift I need.