Further Thoughts on the Superiority of Thanksgiving

You know the real reason I prefer Thanksgiving over Christmas? The whole gift giving thing makes me uncomfortable. I have always been bad at it.

To be honest, I don't even really like to receive presents. The awkward moment where everyone is waiting for your reaction... the strange obligatory gratitude, and then the overbearing question of response... is a thank you card in order? A return gift? a second hug and grin combo?

The thing is, I am this way whether I love the gift or not. I seem to have an issue with obligatory emotion. It extends beyond gift receiving... people who fish for compliments, greetings at family reunions... anything non-organic/spontaneous... I can't bring myself to do it.

Gift giving at the holidays is the ultimate example. I may want to give you something, but the obligatory nature of it takes all of the fun out of the entire thing.

At Christmas time it can feel like a rat race. Trying to find the perfect gift, trying to make sure everyone is covered and no one's feelings get hurt... it multiplies the awkwardness of it all.

i'm just sayin...