TCV FUN – Last-minute Christmas shopping?

Are you doing last-minute Christmas shopping?

Unless you’re buying gifts for children (and some adults) who still believe in Santa Claus, my advice is DON’T!

Commercialism is rampant. Marketers stay busy by finding ways to move YOUR MONEY into their clients’ hands. Capitalism is alive.

Think of it this way: Do they deserve your hard-earned money?

Fuel for your car, food for your tummy, and nourishment for your mind…these are different.

But if you’re spinning out of control trying to get it all done … why?

Have you ever seen happy Holiday shoppers in the stores like they show on TV? I haven’t. Husbands and wives are arguing about how much something costs, about what to get, or just plain dour amidst the crowds. Remember that you have to get those gifts wrapped too. And if you’re flying, the TSA is standing by to search your presents.

Why not give the GIFTS of TIME and SPACE

Think about it: What happens when you receive a gift?

First, you try to find a place to put it. Even a gift certificate or gift card must be filed in a folder somewhere.

Next, you spend time on it. You’ll remember it after you forgot to use it. Long after it expires, you’ll find it and be filled with regret. Do you want to think of the gift giver with regret?

Let’s say, instead of being the recipient, you are the gift giver.

Just by giving someone something, you’ve engaged them in spending time on your gift. Whether they take time to use it, look at it, clean it, or fear that someone will take it….

Save your friends and family precious time with fewer things.

What a refreshing thought.

Still not persuaded?

Consider the wisdom of the ages of stuff.

LIFE CYCLE of STUFF in OUR LIVES

1. ACCUMULATE
   When we venture out on our own as young adults, we start accumulating.
2. ACQUIRE EVEN MORE
   We accumulate even more as we grow into middle age. We search for bigger and better in order to make our mark on the world.
3. DOWNSIZE
   As we enter our elder years, we look around. “Wow, look at all that clutter! Where did it came from?” We struggle to give some of it away. So much of it fills us with memories. Our children don’t want our stuff and our friends and neighbors have enough of their own stuff. Even charities are picky about what stuff they’ll take. We can’t let go and feel increasingly stressed and trapped by all the clutter.

Who wants to feel trapped by stuff?

Help your loved ones grow older without all the stuff that traps them. Give them the gift of time. Nourish their bodies with  food. Spend time with them–reminiscing, helping them around the house, or taking them to a movie.

Do you want to be better prepared next year? Watch for the FUN forthcoming book – Stuffology 101-Get Your Mind Out of the Clutter.