“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.” -Lao Tzu (6th Century B.C.E.)
Gift giving is a timeless tradition that most likely began in Rome. It was Roman practice to present the Emperor with tokens of good luck, like twigs from a sacred bush or foods. As time went on and the practice broadened, the gifts became more costly and precious. In an effort to impress the Emperor or receive special favors, citizens gave clothing, gold or silver.
For a time gift giving was limited to the rich and powerful. Mark Antony showered Cleopatra in a myriad of extravagant gifts. Among these were gold garlands for her hair, land on the coastline of Turkey, and a large black pearl, which she crushed, mixed into a glass of wine and drank as a testament of their love (don’t try this at home). Antony even gave her a library to replace her favorite library when was destroyed by a fire.
Although gifts today aren’t required to be so expensive, high-end jewelry and precious stones are still very popular choices. Amazon.com’s most costly purchase in 2005 was a $94,000 pair of drop diamond earrings. Of course most people can’t afford to spend thousands of dollars on a single gift. According to a recent national survey, 96 percent of women say “it’s the thought that counts.” Thoughtful and sentimental gifts may be valued more than cases full of jewels.
Worrying about the cost of gifts takes away from the true meaning of giving. Gift giving aids in celebration and serves as an expression of friendship, love and gratitude. Giving birthday gifts is a timeless way to show you care. It’s not necessary to give more than you can afford. Being thoughtful doesn’t mean emptying your bank account. There are a number of ways to find personal yet inexpensive gifts.
Modern technology has made birthday gift giving as easy as the click of a mouse. With our busy lives, a trip to the mall is more of an inconvenience than a leisure. Shopping online provides an endless possibility of unique gift choices without pushy salespeople, long lines, traffic and parking problems. Online retailers offer choices in payment and delivery options as well. You can ship gifts directly to far-away friends without the hassle of going to the post office. The easy accessibility of online gift stores has helped the gift industry flourish. The gift and decorative accessories market has nearly reached $40 billion in sales.
Useful and unique gifts are usually greatly appreciated, although sometimes gift-givers get carried away with the “unique” part. Although gag gifts are great for a laugh, some items are just not gift-worthy. Here are examples of some bizarre gifts given for special occasions. I assure these are not made up.
Top 20 Strangest Gifts
- 20. Case of Tuna
- 19. Soap-on-a-rope
- 18. Fire Extinguisher
- 17. Dog in a Dress Kitchen Utensil Holder
- 16. Parking Meter Reminder Key Ring
- 15. 20 lb. Bag of Fertilizer
- 14. Currency Converter
- 12. Tree Root
- 11. Rape Alarm
- 10. Poo-pets (garden animals made of manure)
- 9. Blackhead Remover
- 7. Desktop Trebuchet Model (medieval catapult)
- 4. Camel Saddle
- 3. Baby Possum
- 2. 3-legged Hamster in a Tupperware Bowl
Although you might know someone in need of a good camel saddle, these unconventional gifts aren’t for everyone. Individualize your gifts around the birthday person’s unique tastes. Choosing a more functional gift like gourmet food Themed gifts are also very popular choices. A gift that coincides with the birthday person’s hobbies or interests will be valued and appreciated. An athlete or sports fan may enjoy a sports-themed gift basket. Relaxation gifts are a thoughtful way to help overworked and highly stressed people unwind. Bath & body gifts and candles are great way to promote relaxation. Customize the gift by choosing a favorite scent of the birthday person. Gift baskets in general make great birthday gifts because they are all-inclusive and original. Choose a theme the recipient loves and you can’t go wrong. If you can’t decide on a gift, show the birthday person you care by throwing a sensational surprise party. The guest of honor will be delighted to get to celebrate his or her special day with friends and family. Set up a buffet with the birthday person’s favorite foods and drinks or put together a delicious backyard barbeque. Either way a party is sure to be a memorable event. You can even add themed decorations and party accessories No matter which traditions or rituals you practice, birthdays are a celebration of a person’s existence and longevity. Birthday gifts are a tender reminder that you value the person and want to share the joy of his or her special day. Whether you find gifts at a mall, online store or give a party, the birthday person will feel loved, which means your mission is complete. References: Online Stores' external links disclaimer. "Amazon’s Top Sales Receipt Leads with $94K Diamonds" Diamonds.net. 23 Dec. 2005.
