Obligatory Christmas post

[mirrorshard]

In principle, I approve of Christmas. But I don't do Christmas presents or cards - I actively prefer not to receive them, and I don't give them.

This is not to say that I resent Christmas wishes, or won't give those - quite the opposite, in fact. I'm just not prepared to go through all the stress and pointless hassle of [details redacted, you all know how it goes].

As for the reciprocal side, I don't want more Stuff. I have too much as it is. I also don't feel right about accepting presents when I can't or won't give one in return. So, basically, don't give me things, because it will make me unhappy. On the other hand, seasonal wishes, good thoughts, or simply a 'thinking of you' usually make me very happy indeed.

Comments

[friend-of-tofu.livejournal.com]

You're definitely not alone, IKWYM! I never 'do' Xmas if I can help it. Last year, I was staying with friends who were upset at the idea of me spending the day alone. It was super-nice of them to have me, but it was quite exhausting to experience a 'normal' Xmas where people spend vast sums of money and get hysterical about things like correct wrapping techniques and family members' terrible behaviour. It reinforced my comfort with my own approach a lot.

This year, I'm doing a full family Xmas for the first time in over a decade. I don't mind, because it'll make my Mum happy, but I'll not be doing it every year, that I'm sure of!