Dec 18 2007
Christmas present cluttter
We all love giving and receiving presents, and can acquire a lot of extra stuff at Christmas time. I encourage my family to clear out some belongings that they’ve outgrown, to make room for the lovely presents they’ll be getting.
Sometimes we receive gifts which don’t make our hearts sing. Every time we look at them they slightly drain our energy. I donate unwanted presents to charity shops as soon as possible, and find that they are very appreciative of having new items to sell. I don’t even think about feeling guilty for giving these presents away. The people who gave them to me would not want me to feel bad about their gift. It goes against the spirit of giving.
If you are doing some last minute shopping for gifts, think about whether the recipient would love and use the present. If you are not sure don’t buy it. If in doubt choose consumable items, such as food treats, or vouchers. Ask the cashier for exchange cards. You wouldn’t want the other person to feel bad about the present they are giving them. Nor would you want them to hide the item at the back of their cupboard and bring it out every time you came to visit.
Christmas clutter also has an environmental impact, so it is important to be eco-minded when shopping. Buy quality items which will last, and are repairable. Avoid products with excessive or non recyclable packaging, and those which require a lot of batteries. Use recyclable wrapping paper, not foil or plastics, and remember to put used wrapping paper in the recycling collection.
Have a clutter free Christmas so your mind will be clear to think about those New Year’s intentions.
Copyright Helen Harvey, 2007. All rights reserved.