Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Holiday Meme

Well, not an "official" meme, but something I'd like all my readers (all five of you) to think about and respond to. And I mean seriously think about. And answer seriously (do your best Paul).

Why do you give Christmas presents?

That's it. Just one question. Here's what I've been thinking about for my answer.

Because I'm selfish.

Let me explain. By our very nature, we are selfish people. We do things to either survive or bring ourselves pleasure. You might argue that some noble people, like say Mother Teresa, are very giving. These noble people give things away to help better the lives of others. To help them survive or live a better life. And it makes them happy. So, by definition, if you do something that makes you happy, isn't that being selfish?

So I give presents because it makes me happy. I like to see how people react when they open something really neat or something they really wanted. If I had enough money, I'd buy everyone presents. I'd spoil them so much I would be poor (probably a good reason for my not being the CEO of some big company). I'd love to buy a new van for Yvonne, or a big toy for Elizabeth, or the family farm, or a car for Mom, or this, that and the other thing for everyone.

So that's why I buy presents for Christmas. To make people happy so I can be happy. And if I'm lucky enough, I'll get something good in return (like a Wii, or a pick-up truck, or a million dollars).

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Please don't take this as me spoiling your Christmas gift, but you aren't getting a Wii, a pick up truck, or a million dollars for Christmas. Sorry. I believe that you will truely like what I have picked out and will really enjoy it :-)

As for the why... I am left to quote Joey Tribbiani from Friends -- There is no such thing as a selfless act. I think after watching Phoebe try to find one I might have to agree with Joey.

I give them because I enjoy seeing the happiness they bring to others.

Yvonne

-Melissa- said...

I would have to say the same thing too that giving gifts to others makes me happy. Especially when I give them to my kids. I love watching their faces as the open gifts.

cinda1212 said...

I'm with you, Neil - I give htem because I like to make other people happy. For instance, when I was at the store the other day, I almost bought YOU a present (and man, I wanted it myself - we share the same favorite show!). Now, I couldn't afford to buy it, and you might thought it was strange to get a random gift from me in the mail...but you woulda loved it (if you don't have it already)....

http://www.amazon.com/M-Martinis-Medicine-Complete-Collection/dp/B000HT3P5Q/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1196991576&sr=8-1

Neil Richard said...

Well Cinda, I'm glad you didn't. I already have all the seasons!

There are some extras in this set, but nothing worth buying the entire series to get.

Now, MacGyver, I'm upset they only included the movies in the series set. I already bought the seasons separately and now don't have the movies.

cinda1212 said...

This set looke like it had a bunch of extras, interviews, the original movie, and a bunch of stuff that came in the package. looked cool. although, in general, i think it's kinda nuts to buy tv shows on DVD. if it's a GREAT show, it's likely still in syndication and you can still see it on now. I have a hard enough time trying to watch new shows, much less old shows i know by heart.