Backstory
This story first aired in 2014. It brought more comments than any previous story. It was featured again in 2017 and again brought a storm of response. Seems I was not the only one with this experience. Feel free to write your comments, after listening to what happened when I gave gifts to the children.
I Bought Gifts
I bought gifts for some children who were coming to visit. The kids were 5 years old, 8 and 13. The gifts totally bombed out. The kids were disappointed with them.
I had so enjoyed picking them out and making sure they were age-appropriate. And they were rejected with hardly a parent-induced, murmured “thanks.”
Who went wrong? Them or me?
Was it too much to expect a polite response from kids this age, even if they were not thrilled with the gift? Or am I placing MY expectations on THEM?
I can remember receiving presents as a kid; some bummers and some keepers. I hope I was gracious in my acceptance of both kinds. But was I?
And if I gushed over some out-of-style or mundane gift, was I being hypocritical? Was it more honest to show without a doubt that the gift was unwelcome?
Do the parents have a responsibility to instill in their kids the social concepts of civility and appreciation? Or do I just shrug, chalk it up to my bad and give the kids money next time, so they can go and buy something they’d like.
One thing for sure; I won’t be choosing any more gifts for these kids. Not because I’m mad at them, just because I am now assured that I have no concept of their preferences and desires.
Too bad. I really enjoyed shopping for those gifts.
P.S. Consider This Radio Show is now featured in Grand Magazine. Click here to subscribe. It’s my gift to you!
[Show #528]
Your motivation for buying gifts for the kids could be varied: the ‘surprise’ factor; the “need to please’; “our ago”; etc. The really sad issue here is the parent’s failure to instill the “appreciation” factor in their kids: “No matter the gift, say “thank you”.
Obligatory thank you – integral part of southern charm.