Gifting

     Is Santa in control?  Both adults and children seem to enjoy this idea.  Adults like to give anonymously and experience the joy an innocent child gets from anticipating and receiving special toys from the magical character.
     Are retailers pushing the buttons?  Buyers are stirred up by advertising and special sales for weeks in advance of the holidays.  They add to the idea that acquiring things can bring happiness.
     Is tradition the biggest influence?  We continue past behaviors because we want to duplicate the happy memories.  We may feel obligated to our family and find it difficult to make changes.
     Is religion the guide?  Christians may be honoring God who gave the gift of his son.  The wise men brought gifts to the babe.  Believers may get into the spirit of giving.
     When do we take control?  Of course, hardly anyone wants to take Santa from children.  A balance can be made between "what I want" and "what can I give."  The gift can be time and simple homemade items.  This type of giving should go on all year instead of just for holidays.  Resisting pressure from retailers is difficult, but we must rely on common sense.  We can  rethink our traditions and plan what works best for us.
      December may be a time for religious observance and family tradition.  Just ask yourself who or what is influencing your decisions.  Gifting can be done all year long.