Alternative Birthday Present
By mdarma
@mdarma (868)
Singapore
March 17, 2007 3:26am CST
When my son was around 12 years old and his birthday was approaching. My wife and me were planning a birthday party for him.
My son approached us and said that we are wasting money. He went on to explain that lots of people will be coming and he will be receiving lots of present.
Most of the presents that he will be receiving will not interest him and further there will be duplications of present. All these are waste of money.
So we asked him what we should do?He said give him the money that we meant to spend for the birthday, and he will get presents that he wants. In this way we will save on the energy preparing for the party and he will get his presents.
I thought that was great., so eventually it was a win win situation
What do you think? Would you adopt this idea?
2 responses
@winterose (39887)
• Canada
17 Mar 07
yes great idea, I do not believe in forcing a party on a child who does not want it or will really appreciate it. I think birthdays are special and I always gave my son what he wanted.
@dillinger83 (165)
•
17 Mar 07
Sounds like a smart kid! I think everyone has thought this way at some point or another. It is really practical and in most cases I would probably prefer receiving money so that I could buy what I really truly wanted. I would also like to do the same for my friends, but it is considered somewhat taboo. Some people feel that it is too impersonal. Gift cards are a more widely accepted way to help ensure that your friend/family member receives a gift that they really desire. If you know what stores they prefer, you can always get a gift card.
However, I do enjoy opening presents - the surprise and anticipation that are involved. On many occasions I have received gifts that I never would have chosen for myself or never even knew existed, but I ended up absolutely loving them! It can be very touching when someone you love gives you a gift that is just perfect for you - it shows how well they know you and how closely they listen to you.
Another alternative is providing gift receipts with the package. This way, if your loved one doesn't like the gift, they can return it on their own and chose something else they like.
@mdarma (868)
• Singapore
17 Mar 07
Well I agree with you totally.
In this case it was a 12 yrs old, He will have is own set of presents and the money he receive will be from his parents.
Further, I realise that when he does the shopping for his gifts he learns to be trifty in buying things that he really wants. A new set of leaning.
