Boxing Day

When I was growing up in Hong Kong, we had boxing day. I never understood what it was. I still don't. But now with the internet, we can look everything up (taken with a grain of salt, of course). Whatever the definition, it seems the common thread was to give to those of "lower class". I'm not one to perpetuate social classes but there's no denying they exist. In any case, I was thinking about the kids and the presents they've received. They were all great but of course, what the kids were fighting over to play with was the gingerbread head where you squeeze it and the eyes bug out:












which I believe comes out to about 33 cents a head. But still they wanted more. Of course, they're kids. My husband and I are trying to instill in them what Christmas is about but it's hard when you are bombarded with ads on TV, in the mail, etc. I thought about how we are such a consumer-oriented society and there's this need to buy, buy, buy... when in fact, we probably only need a small percentage of what we buy (I'm guilty too). That there may be an overabundance in one home and not enough in others.

What I thought we could do is to donate at least one of the presents to others. But right off the bat, I thought of a couple of things:

• Perpetuates the social classes - that those who "have" get their presents first and the "have-nots" have to wait the next day
• Getting a bunch of "unwanted" gifts - unwanted isn't the right word but gifts that the receiver did not want, like tube socks*, so maybe "too practical" would work? I don't know...
• The giver may be hurt if their present was the one that was picked.
  

Anyway, someone, somewhere could use the gift - whatever it is. Even if it is practical - someone out there could probably use some tube socks. Maybe if they're donated to a homeless shelter? I would love to hear comments or criticisms - it's just something I thought of this morning and I haven't had my coffee yet.

When you're a kid, it's hard to look past the tangible gifts. Sure, I love getting presents just like everyone else but what I treasure most is time spent with my family and friends, no matter how crazy they are. I hope everyone had a good holiday and wish everyone a Happy New Year!


*Incidentally, my mom gave me 500 tablets of 1000mg Vitamin C as part of my Christmas present this year. Being practical is great and all but it makes for some unusual presents. Okay Ma! I'll take the vitamins already! Quit nagging! And thanks Ma. :)