Them: “What do you want for Christmas?”

Me: “How about we do something special together instead of exchanging gifts?”

Them: “Well I have to get you something.”

For years I have been moving away from the commercialism that Christmas seems to have become, focusing on the experiences instead. I have kept his tradition alive of leaving the Christmas lights on and the Christmas music playing through Christmas Eve to Christmas morning.  In the years of living alone I have created new traditions;

• Decorating is a quiet afternoon carefully un-wrapping the cherished ornaments received from family and friends being filled with the memories of years past.
• Christmas cards received are left unopened until Christmas morning when time is taken to savor each one.

The difficulty I experience is with the gift exchange. I have had the conversation above in one form or another more times than I can count.  I am financially secure, if there is something material I need I will get it for myself, I do not need someone to purchase something for me because they feel they have to.  I see the frustration and stress that people put themselves through at this time of year and it saddens me.

I wonder why some cannot put together the fact when they talk about what they enjoyed during the holidays it is not the gifts they speak of but the time spent together.

This year I have chosen to take a stand: if I am asked what I want for a gift I politely advise that I have made a choice to no longer receive or give gifts.  Any gifts presented to me will be declined with a sincere thank you for thinking of me but reiterating my choice.