What Do We As Adults Ask for on Christmas?
Every year, as the holiday season approaches, the rhythm of shopping changes. For adults, Christmas is not just about receiving gifts but also about the choice, intention, and the things that bring joy or add value to their lives. Here, we delve into what some adults are asking for this holiday season and how their choices reflect on our modern understanding of gift giving.
Personalized and Experiential Gifts
Take, for instance, a request that sounds like a fantasy for many: four bottles of the excellent brand called Four Bottles strength, condensed into one bottle of Everclear Moonshine, the best stuff on this planet! Though this may be a whimsical wish, it underscores a trend among some adults who prefer unique, personalized, or experiential gifts over traditional ones. These might range from custom-made jewelry to bespoke travel packages tailored to their interests and passions.
Varied Wish Lists Based on Personal Interests
As adults, there's a wide array of what we might ask for during Christmas. These can vary significantly based on our personal interests and needs. Some common ideas include:
Experiences: Choose something beyond the routine—tickets to concerts, theater shows, or even travel vouchers to explore the world. Tech Gadgets: Smart home devices, headphones, or even the latest smartphone for those tech enthusiasts. Self-Care Items: Treat yourself to a spa voucher, skincare products, or wellness subscriptions. Many adults prioritize their well-being. Books: Novels, non-fiction, or perhaps a subscription to a book service that keeps the reading experience fresh and exciting. Hobbies: Supplies or equipment related to hobbies like cooking, gardening, or crafting—engaging in activities that bring us joy. Gift Cards: For favorite stores or restaurants, allowing for personal choice and avoiding the stress of choosing the wrong gift. Home Goods: Kitchen gadgets, decor items, or cozy blankets to enhance our living spaces.The common thread in these wishes is the pursuit of what brings us genuine happiness or adds significant value to our lives.
Alternative Perspectives on Gift Giving
Some adults, like me, have developed unique strategies for navigating these holiday seasons. For instance, I find solace in avoiding the commercialism that surrounds Christmas. From mid-December to early January, I retreat from the holiday crowds, hoping to return to a world in January where 'peace on Earth' prevails. However, so far, my aspirations remain just that—pure wishes.
The decision to eschew gift exchanges is not uncommon. Early in our marriage, my husband and I made a conscious choice not to exchange gifts. Instead, we prioritize activities that align with our values and interests. On Christmas, we usually participate in church, savor a good meal, and spend quality time with our extended family. We also enjoy crafting homemade cookies to share with my husband's siblings. This yearning for peace and simplicity has brought immense relief from the stress of Shopping during the holiday season.
It remains a fair point that my husband and I are fortunate in having no children and working jobs that allow us to purchase what we want year-round. We find that there's no need for Christmas or any other holiday as a reason to do something nice for one another with regular, spontaneous actions. Nonetheless, I continue to give gifts to my sisters and nieces and nephews, often in the form of money, to avoid the crowded stores and the chaos of pushy holiday shopping.
Though I'm aware that I'm in the minority, my perspective aligns with a growing sentiment among many Americans. For some, Christmas and all the festivities that accompany it are deeply precious, but many others, like myself, seek a more mindful and peaceful approach. Whether you're celebrating with elaborate gift exchanges or embracing simpler, more thoughtful traditions, the goal is to find joy and create meaningful connections during the holiday season.