Monday, December 15, 2014

'Tis a Gift to Be Simple

Simple gifts.

Oftentimes, it is the simple gifts I remember most.

The knitting magazine an anonymous coworker left on my desk.

The card in the mail thanking us for our hard work and dedication, letting us know we're appreciated in spite of what others may say. 

A cup of coffee on a dreary, slow Friday at work.

A helpful and encouraging friend during a major life transition. 

The plate of cookies and candle brought over by a neighbor to welcome us to the neighborhood. 

For some, this kind of simple gift giving comes naturally. For others, we have to work at it. Like me.

I love gift giving. I love going overboard, spending hours looking for that one, perfect gift. And in the process, something is lost. It can be easy to forget why we're giving the gifts, and instead focus on the gifts themselves. 

Christmas 2014 was a time for me to slow down and put the simple, hand-made, and thoughtful aspects back into my gift-giving. And you know what? I don't regret it one bit. It was relaxing and freeing. 

So this year, I'm challenging myself. To keep the mindset of simplicity in gift giving. There are lots of birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays coming up I this year. May we once again find joy in the simple gifts.