I have a confession: this year I haven’t bought almost any Christmas presents.
Make no mistake, my Sikh ass loves this splendid Christian holiday, so I gave people gifts, and good ones. I gave some cute earrings to my sister, a scented candle to my childhood friend and a copy of a photo book to my boyfriend’s mom’s boyfriend. But I didn’t actually buy any of these things. I handed them out.
Giving back is considered largely unpleasant. A second-hand gift is supposed to mean less than a new one, and if a gift is not bought again, the choice should not be considered. But I’m here to say it’s silly. We give gifts to please our loved ones and not show off our spending skills (usually at least). And there’s no reason why a previously loved thing can’t make someone happy while easing the burden that overproduction puts to the planet.
It’s not like he’s sucking on sucking presents. The earrings I received as a gift from my housewife last year, and I loved them, so I kept them around, but I don’t have pierced ears and I probably never will. The scented candle was also given to me as a gift, but I don’t like its powdery aroma. And the photo book was mine, and I loved it, but I don’t need it anymore, so I pass it on to someone who can appreciate it.
Transmitting unwanted or already loved gifts is also a more sustainable option. At the very least, it’s much better than keeping unnecessary garbage in our apartments until we finally decide to separate and throw it in the trash, send it to a landfill or garbage incinerator where it’s meant to contribute to heating pollution. of the planet.
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Giving back, or any other personal choice related to Christmas gifts, will not fundamentally address the political issues that have led to our global waste and overproduction crises. In our global economy, things (clothes, candles, anything) are not made to cover a particular amount of need, but to make the most profit, and the transmission of a few wrong products will not change this whole system. The big problem is not the presents, but the profit motive, girl.
But considering the option, I’d rather not throw something away if I know someone might want it. I also give away my soft-used items, but it’s also good to make someone you like smile.
As for it, I am not only interested in making gifts presented above, but also receiving them. Some of the best gifts I got (jewelry, pottery, table, guitar pedal) were things the donor had already used.
Most people who celebrate Christmas are sure to have already opened their presents. But you can keep the spirit of the holiday by continuing to convey things. Give away the cup your mom gave you that you don’t need because your closet is too messy or that sweater that doesn’t fit you. Damn, give away the things that does it also suits you once you’re done. Not to be all Marie KondoBut will you really read that book again or continue to wear that dress in the back of your closet? Give it to a friend you know will enjoy it and it can also be cool enough to lend to you for a night where we can all go out safely again in groups. Clear some space at home and save some space in the trash. And it can also make someone feel good.