Christmas: A Time for Self-Indulgence and Joy
Does the spirit of Christmas often revolve solely around the exchange of gifts on December 25? Not for everyone. For me, gift-giving is a year-long endeavor, with rounds of pleasant shopping starting in October and continuing until about a week before Christmas. It's a time of anticipation and enjoyment, not just for the release of new products, but for the sheer happiness of acquiring items that bring me joy.
The thrill of Christmas hasn't diminished since my early childhood. Every year, my relatives eagerly ask what I desire. That excited feeling persists as I grow older. My purchases are not made with the intent to flaunt or impress others but for my own personal satisfaction. After an upheaval of shopping, I'll go several months without buying anything new. Even my birthday will pass without a new acquisition.
The Right to Postpone Holiday Shopping
A great Christmas shopping strategy I've adapted is to wait until items go on sale before purchasing. Why rush into buying gifts when you can wait for prices to drop and maintain the same excitement?
A Gift to Remember
The biggest gift to myself was spending Christmas day with my mother without the interference of others. This year, my second best gift was the DVD of Young Doctors in Love. I ordered it after reading about it on Quora and found it at a great price—around ten dollars. Another special moment was when my employers arranged for a private jet to bring me home to my mother, adding an extra layer of sweetness to the visit.
The Power of Books and Personalized Gifts
This year, I purchased two hardback books: What Is a Quantum Field Theory A First Introduction for Mathematicians by Michel Talagrand and Quantum Theory for Mathematicians by Brian C. Hall. Though I haven't opened them yet, the anticipation of diving into these academic treasures is exciting.
Another cherished gift was the addition of four new sweaters from my daughter for Christmas and one for my birthday. A few years ago, I strongly desired a dark chocolate brown cowl neck pullover sweater, but have not yet found the perfect one. Two gray sweaters have filled this gap in my wardrobe, though they are lighter in shade than I had hoped.
Spreading Christmas Spirit
While personally indulging in gifts, I've also taken time to reconnect with my friends via social media by sharing Christmas pictures and expressing gratitude for the blessings in my life. Spending time with my beloved cat Cody and preparing a sumptuous steak dinner with a few glasses of wine further added to the festive spirit. Merry Christmas to all my readers!
Conclusion
Christmas is not just about buying presents; it's a time for personal gratification and joy. Whether you're indulging in books, sweaters, or sentimental gifts, the season is meant to be enjoyed. So, enjoy your self-indulgence and make this Christmas the happiest yet!