I just read an article about "holiday giving". It talked about this being this time of year when we are "hit up" to give gifts to everyone. For instance, giving a holiday gift to your:
* mailman
* newspaper delivery person
* garbage collector
* hair stylist
* babysitter
* teachers, aides...
There were two schools of thought. Remember those people who are in service oriented jobs by giving a token of your thanks. The flip side was, these people have chosen their jobs and some receive tips/gifts throughout the year for their service. What are your thoughts? Has gift giving gotten out of control?
HAVE A POST IDEA?
- chickchat4us
- Click the yellow chick (to the left) or click "view my complete profile" (just below in pink). This will take you to the link so you can contact us. Email your posting ideas & requests & we'll post them on the site!!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
5 comments:
I think it has gotten somewhat out-of-control. For me, it's more about appreciation versus expectation. I give a holiday gift to my mailman, teachers and babysitter. I've "let go" of feeling pressured to do something for everyone because then the true meaning of the holiday is overlooked : )
I agree -- I think back to when I was little & I'm pretty certain my parents didn't tip our trash collectors, etc. We might have given a card or some homemade cookies. I don't even think we really gave gifts to teachers.
I am so confused on who to give to. Do you have to gift your water delivery guy?
I'm sticking to some basics this year -- teachers for certain, and anyone else that seems like they get little "thank yous" but they make a difference.
I think a "gift" should be exactly that..a freely chosen expression of generosity! As a former hairstylist, babysitter, and classroom mother, I never expected anything from my former clients simply because it was Christmas. Some people chose to give me little gifts, or big gifts, or cookies or cards, and I thought that was lovely, but not necessary, and I was never disappointed by those who did not. In a "tipping" profession, I still believe that a tip should reflect how pleased we are with the service at any time of year, and EXPRESSING your gratitude can mean much more to a service professional than money or cookies! (as the blog stated, "these people have chosen their jobs" and most of us who choose a service profession have done so because we like to serve and make people happy, so letting us know that we have made someone happy - by whatever means you like- is the best gift in any season!)
I must say that this concept of giving gifts to everyone who crosses your path is totally new to me. I have always given a gift to teachers and caregivers, but the mailman and the paper carrier!?! I couldn't even pick them out of a line up! I do tip the paper carrier, and other than some cookies (if I get to it) that will have to do.
I agree w/Jenni. Love that you give cookies...who doesn't enjoy a surprise treat : )
Post a Comment