Being human during Christmas

My family is going to have a gift exchange this year. Instead of buying gifts for everyone, we just need to buy for 1 person. I was paired up. We each answered questions about our qualities, likes, hobbies, interests etc. so that the person we're paired with can get an idea of what to buy us. This list was sent via email and cc'd to each of the relatives participating. I just feel like things are a little off with this. Although this makes the process, much more streamline, efficient, and affordable; there seems to be a lack of humanity in this process. Understandably, times are tough and wallets are tight. But, I can't seem to buy into this idea so I'm proposing a new idea.

Too often, people are at the mall at the last minute scurrying to buy presents or they get their Christmas shopping done way ahead of time to get it over with. The meaning surrounding the gift, although arguably a symbol of thoughtfulness and sincerity, doesn't entirely in my opinion, establish the connection that ought to be established. The T-shirt will eventually be stuffed at the bottom of the drawer, the jewelry kept in a safe, and the new Jordans getting replaced by a revival release the next season. I'm not saying that I'm anti gift giving. I'm merely questioning if too much emphasis is placed on "gift-giving" to the point where it becomes obligatory, mechanical, routinized, and diminishes the feeling of having truly given and/or received something meaningful.

I'm proposing creating a "thank you letter" for each person who has played a role in shaping your life. I can't help but feel that this gift would strengthen the bond that you share with the people closest to you, or create a bridge to bring you closer to those with whom you'd like to be closer. A declaration of your feelings for someone may be perceived as too mushy or effeminate in some circles, but I view it as truthful, genuine, authentic - a display of what it really means to be human - at the core what it means to give and receive appreciation. To me, someone's thank you would mean more than the latest and greatest article of clothing, an expression of gratitude uncannily exhibited by a friend would outshine the brightest bling, including a Jesus piece. I'm trying to redirect myself in the direction of what it means to be human. What it means to be vulnerable, courageous, loving, humorous, and giving in a world that tends to shield emotion, and promote materialism. I think being clear on defining and sharing these most precious qualities is important especially around the holidays when family and friends are within reach.

I'm committed to accomplishing the letter writing campaign this Christmas. Since we're kind of all writers here, maybe you all could join the fun. No pressure, its only your humanity at stake.

Dirikalitz nowitzki