“How do you feel about the “giving” aspect of Christmas? What does it mean to you?”
“Christmas is not always about material gifts. Giving isn’t what we always can receive, or hold onto, or touch. Gifts are not always a tangible item. Sometimes giving looks like giving time or lending an ear for someone who might want to get something off their chest..I think people remember the gifts that are not materialistic; gifts that come from the heart, or the gifts you make. I think playing on your strengths that aren’t related to money could be just as meaningful or even more.”
“I see what you mean. I don’t often find myself reflecting over the material items that people give me, but rather the meaning behind the gift or the thoughtfulness of it. I think gifts also bring a lot of joy when people least expect to receive something from someone. The other night I went out to dinner with my gal pals and one of my friends brought a small present for each of us. It was such a small gesture, but it brought us so much delight and we certainly will remember that positive feeling. I love a thoughtful gift, but more so, the thoughtful people who come up with these ideas. You know I’m a huge fan of authenticity and intention. Do you think that’s what makes certain ‘presents’ more meaningful?”
“Yeah, meaningful. How do you perceive your giving over the holiday?”
“I think that my “giving-style” is really “me”. The way I think about the gifts I give to others is that I also think about the experience of when I give it, like how it will be received and also the impact of my gift. I’m a bit goofy by nature, so I like my gifts to…”
“Spark a chuckle.”
“Sure, sometimes, but also heart-felt. Here’s a bit of a spoiler-alert for some people, but I like giving and receiving books. I think books are really cool because they can spark conversation and novel thought. It’s also something you can talk about and explore later together, so it’s not just something that’s used specifically for oneself. For example, people recommend me books and when I actually read them, I’m often surprised by how much I learn or how much I enjoy the experience of reading. A recent book I read was “Ready Player One” which was recommended to me by a colleague. Then I told two strangers I met while traveling to also read the book, and we plan to reconvene 11 months from now to talk about it. I also got my boss to read the book. And she got her husband to read the book. And now they both have finished it and are borrowing another book by the same author. Isn’t that wild? One person’s recommendation has already sparked an impromptu book club. I’m all about that!!!! What are some gifts that you enjoy giving or receiving?”
“I really like notes or cards. Because when people write me a note it’s usually something I can look back on…I think memories is what I’m trying to say, or something that builds a memory. Like a picture or something I can connect feelings to. And then be able to look back on it throughout the year and be reminded of that person’s thoughtfulness.”
“I know what you mean. I still remember the card you wrote me and I actually keep another one of your cards at my desk at work. I also have the card I got from Colonial Williamsburg at work and a card from a fellow pharmacist who I met at the American Pharmacists Association’s annual meeting. It was so sweet. She took photos of us together on a disposable camera and wrote me a hand-written card. While the digital age allows us to communicate quickly and diffusely, there is something so personal about a hand-written card. It just takes so much more effort!
Our conversations right now remind me of literally what I think about during my commute to and from work. When I’m in the walking phase between the Metro and where I need to be, I’m often in awe about how I’m able to accomplish all that I have, and am, and will, and I’m so grateful. It’s a little pump up to get my day going and to do my best. This is kind of intense, but I do have something to fall back on that most people don’t. Sometimes I’ll ask myself, ‘What if you died again today?’ And while this is un-relatable to some, it’s a reality for me; and it really inspires me to just do my best and treat people with kindness, because if it was my last day, I wouldn’t want it spent being cruel to another person.”
“Love.”
“This was a really good chat.”
“I agree.”
“I’m glad you brought up the topic.”
“Mhmmm.”
“I really like the fire playing on our TV with the saxophone music and, what is the candle we are burning?”
“Um, cinnamon apple, or cinnamon stick.”
“Yeah, I like it.”
“Vibe.”
“Definitely. Okay, well I appreciate your company and our evening chats. This is a gift for both of us! More reflections to come!”
Authors: Jing Wu & John Dahl
