Reflecting on the Present(s)

I remember when I learned about Boxing Day. Or at least what I thought it meant based on the explanation provided by my Canadian roommate: on the day after Christmas you box up presents that you don't need or want to give to the less fortunate.  I thought it was a great idea and really quite generous.  I'm sure I can think of gifts I've received every year that I probably didn't need and could have given away without any drastic loss.  However, I'm a sentimental gift receiver; it is difficult for me to truly embrace the idea to give away something meant for me.  I know I have kept too many things for too long simply because someone gave them to me.  My clothes diet this year reflects a greater goal of mine to be able to live with less things--to live more simply with what I have.

Based on the wikipedia description of Boxing Day, I think I'm safe.  But I decided to reflect on the gifts I received this year and whether or not I could part with them.  After a few days of reflection, I decided it is uncouth to list the gifts you receive, so I've amended this post. 

I think it's confirmed that I would not give away my gifts.  Perhaps I'm just too selfish. Or perhaps instead of giving away gifts, I can simply choose to give donations like they did for Boxing Day in the past--which would also prevent the horrible faux-pas of re-gifting.  

beck