EDITOR’S NOTE: This is one of four Christmas-themed stories in a feature package produced by ABP and its New Voice Media partners.
(ABP) — Here are some suggestions to reduce and reallocate Christmas spending habits:
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• Draw names instead of giving to everyone.
• Let others help; tell them your intention to give less and ask them not to buy an expensive gift.
• Give family gifts instead of individual gifts.
• Give gifts only to children.
• Don’t give children money to give you a gift.
• Design and make your own gifts.
• Set a spending limit with spouse and family.
• Don’t buy a gift that simply will be returned.
• Bake something.
• Go caroling.
• Create a homemade gift certificate for a favor or service.
• Give to mission and benevolent projects in someone’s honor.
• Give and wrap gifts in a way that cares for the environment.
• Give the gift of your time, talents and involvement — more presence, fewer presents!
• Teach someone a skill you possess.
• Make cards or postcards on your computer.
• Send electronic cards; they're often free.
• Write a story or poem, make a song or create art as a gift.
• Write a letter of love and/or appreciation.
• Adopt a family in the community. Names are available through churches and community agencies.
• Support church missions around the world.
— taken From www.simplechristmas.org, including suggestions from Unplug the Christmas Machine: A Complete Guide to Putting Love and Joy Back into the Season by Jo Robinson and Jean Coppock Staeheli.
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