The Lesson In Opening Christmas Presents

Gary

I had the greatest gift possible watching my new grandson open his presents. What a warm feeling!

Gary, so true, couldn't agree more.  Thanks for the post!

We gave the grandkids books this year. It was so much fun watching them open them and dig into them. What a blessing!

Not much more important than having those who you can count on in your life !!!

Cheers Gary ! Hope you had a great Christmas :o)

Hi Gary, You write, "When someone gives you a gift and you give them a gift there is this bond there that caring is a two way street."  For some reason it has always kind of bothered me that my stepchildren go in together and get us one gift instead of giving their own separate gifts.  You have figured it out for me.  It has nothing to do with the number of gifts; it just seems impersonal to me although they may not intend it that way.  There's always something to learn on ActiveRain.

Gary-This sentence is sure true (None of us should have the burden of the whole world on them. Know others are there for you. Know who they are. You be one of them for another too.)  in both aspects that none of should have the burden of the whole world on them although sometimes sharing those burdens doesn't always make things better. The person you chose to share it with would have to be open to understanding what you were feeling even if it the same thing wouldn't phase them and therein lies a challenge. We all have the desire to be loved and understood by the important people in our lives. It is also wonderful to have others there for you I agree.  It is truly important to know who they are and also that we are there for others.  I try to be there for others and appreciate when people are there for me. Happy New Year. <SMILE>

Gary - Well said !  The bond between 2 is very special and the giving and receiving of gifts is special indeed.  Life is all about those bonds and relationships. 

Gary,

Back in the Soviet Union, we had the tradition of gifts under the tree (usually not gift- wrapped). We always thought that this was a historic tradition. Noe we know that this was a Christmas tradition, but because religion was practically banned, people shifted the tradition to New Year.

Now we are back to putting the gifts under the tree on Christmas, and this is the biggest fun for the kids, and fun for the rest of us.

Gary:  Getting those unexpected gifts is also a heartwarmer.  Last year I remember receiving a 2x4 note pad.  Very cute in it's design.  It was from a co-worker that I would never have expected anything from.  I use it to jott down my business mileage.  And everytime I do that, I think of my co-worker and how thoughtful she was.  The unexpected gifts are the best.

Gary, your post was perfect and actually doesn't even need a comment.  It's just so true.  Thanks!

As usual.....great perspective! And true.....this was a great Christmas in our family, yet the gifts were by far the most humble we've had. We got some thoughtful, little gifts.....and mostly just enjoyed each other.

Gary...insightful point to lighten the load of the world from our shoulders...Good thing the government is now on His shoulders.

Gary, This blog comes at a good time for many.  I see so many people so stressed this time of year instead of enjoying it.  I hope they read this and follow the advice!

Gary,  How appropriate...  I love your words of wisdom as usual

Hi Gary, Can you jus imagine if this lesson were actually taught to children. I think children should better understand gift giving and why one would want to give a gift. Learningto receive is just a it easier, :-)

Gary- I really like the first comment and what a wonderful post, and the power of (Love)! You have found yourself a feature at one of my favorite underrated groups at the Activerain network .........

LOVE AT ACTIVERAIN

VB ;o)

hmmm i never thought of it that way - the reciprocity of the gift exchange - this year we didn't exchange any gifts - except gifts for the young children - and of course that wasn't reciprocal.  and....it was strange......hmm......

Gary, that's a good lesson for opening any present at any time of the year.

Gary, just wanted to say how much I appreciate your blog, your comments, and all the comment!  More than any other time of the year, Christmas is the time that we want to say "I care!" and have the ones we love know that we are there for them!  It's such a simple pleasure!  I had an unusual Christmas Present this year, my ex-wife's husband phoned on Christmas Day and invited me for dinner, so my children would have everyone they loved under the same roof without having to choose!  Felt a little strange, but it actually turned out to be a wonderful evening complete with board games! :)