Unwanted gifts
Dear Frankie,
Why do friends send gifts when you ask them not to?
Dora, my friend from puppy class, insists on sending me a birthday present every year. When I moved, she called and asked me for my new address. I said I would give it to her if she promised not to send me a present.
Two days before my birthday, a package arrived with a card that said, “This had your name on it. Enjoy.”
When I opened the box, I didn’t know what was redder, my face or the scarf inside. Of all the colors, why would she pick out a red scarf? I’m an Irish Setter and red clashes with my hair color. I also wouldn’t be caught dead wearing a scarf and matching bows. I was furious that she sent me a gift when I asked her not to.
The next day, I took her gift to the dog park and gave it to Louella. She’s a grey poodle and loves to dress up. But now I feel guilty that I disrespected my friend by giving away her present.
Jordan
Dear Jordan,
When you receive a gift, it is yours to do as you wish. You can decide whether to keep it or give it away.
But remember, it’s not just the gift, but the thought and effort behind it that counts.
Dora went to a lot of trouble to get you that gift. It reminded her of you when she saw it. She thought it was something you would like it. So, she bought it, wrapped it, wrote a card, and mailed it to you.
When you get a gift, the appropriate thing to do is say “thank you” and acknowledge the person’s thoughtfulness. I’m assuming you are planning on writing her a thank-you note?
Best, Frankie
© 2024 Geneva Woodruff
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