On this, “Rhyme and Reason’s” second day of Christmas, let’s discuss the phenomenon of gifting. Shopping for, giving and getting presents at Christmas time is an age old tradition, observed by more than just Christians this time of year. Every store in every mall, not to mention e-retailers, are inundated with shoppers, frantically looking for that special gift for a loved one.
But alas, we have all received that one gift, so bizarre, as us to have to strain to keep from laughing (or screaming) upon opening its package. Hopefully it comes in the mail, so we don’t have to look into the eager eyes of Aunt or Uncle whomever. But, when it is opened in the presence of the gift-giver, a whole set of protocols are ingrained into our brains from our youth to show appreciation for it. The art of looking surprised and happy about receiving whatever it is. I think there is an irony to the fact that the first Christmas presents were given by wise men.

Gifting

Think of all the presents, which are bought and wrapped with bows
And people asking Santa, to bring these or one of those

You might get and Xbox, or an iPad or a phone
I hope you’ll all get something, you can keep and use and own

But then one day you’ll get that thing, you wish they didn’t send
You can just re-wrap it, and re-gift it to a friend

The re-giftee receives it, and they might re-gift it too
It may take a year, but it will end up back with you

As for me I’ll get no Gold, or Frankincense or Myrrh
I’ll receive a sweater, or some underwear for sure

Jeff Burkhart’s “Rhyme and Reason”
© Copyright, December, 2013
All Rights Reserved

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