I adore the thrill, the anticipation, and that delightful break from our daily grind. Yet, I dread the planning, the chores, and the mounting expectations. So, when my eldest son, Ethan, suggested we invent a new family holiday called Giving Day, I felt a mix of excitement and exasperation.
Ethan’s idea was straightforward. We’d draw names, exchange small gifts, enjoy some quality time together, and then, as he put it, “just go back to our regular day.” Curious about his inspiration, I asked, “What sparked this idea?” His response was simple: “I thought it would be fun.” While I appreciated his enthusiasm and creativity, I worried that Giving Day could easily devolve into More Stuff to Deal With Day or even Gimme Day.
As someone striving for minimalism, I aim to declutter and streamline our lives. The last thing I wanted was another holiday focused on acquiring more things. On top of that, my husband and I were already juggling a lot; I didn’t want to add another task to our overflowing to-do list.
Still, Ethan’s excitement piqued my interest. As we discussed his vision, it became clear that Giving Day should center around two core themes: generosity and togetherness. “What if we also give to people outside our family?” I proposed. “Yes!” he responded, nodding enthusiastically. “We could bake cookies for the neighbors or do something nice for others!”
We brainstormed ways to ensure Giving Day emphasized giving beyond our household and discussed practicalities. I wanted Ethan to grasp that gifts don’t always equate to monetary value. “How about we make our gifts or just get small ones for each other?” he suggested. “Sounds good. And you boys will use your own money?” I asked. “I can, but Teddy might need some assistance since he doesn’t really have any,” he replied, ever so reasonable.
With confidence, Ethan marked “GIVING DAY” in bold letters on the upcoming weekend’s calendar. Days before the event, we drew names for our gift exchanges. We decided that after exchanging presents, we would bake cookies for our neighbors. The boys asked for guidance on their gift ideas.
When Giving Day arrived, despite my better judgment, I felt optimistic and excited, which, as anyone knows, often leads to unrealistic expectations. The day started pleasantly enough, and we exchanged gifts. Ethan gifted me a journal; I gave my husband a bag of spicy nuts; he presented our younger son, Teddy, with an Iron Man mask; and Teddy gifted Ethan a wind-up hopping eyeball he had snagged at a garage sale. I captured a few smiles and posed with their gifts, but soon after, the magic of Giving Day faded.
What unfolded next was more akin to Sibling Rivalry Day, quickly spiraling into I Want Yours Day, followed by Yelling Day and Go to Your Room Day. We did manage to recover and deliver cookies to our neighbors, but not without grumbling, especially since the rain had started pouring by the time we finished baking.
That first Giving Day, like most holidays, fell short of my expectations. There were more tears and bickering than the selflessness and gratitude I had hoped for. Yet, in other ways, it surpassed my hopes. The little girl next door joyfully called to thank us for the cookies, and the boys decided they wanted to craft handmade gifts for next year’s Giving Day. That night, I scribbled in the new journal, a thoughtful gift from my son.
We recently celebrated our second Giving Day, and once again, things didn’t go according to plan. A broken water heater forced my husband to stay home while we were supposed to volunteer at Feed My Starving Children. Teddy cried when he opened Ethan’s gift—a drawing and certificate—because it didn’t feature the Carolina Panthers, his current favorite team. But hey, he’s five, so tears are a natural part of the package.
Despite the hiccups and disappointments, I eagerly anticipate our next Giving Day. Just like most family holidays, the chaotic moments blend with the beautiful ones, revealing love, care, and affection at their core. Disappointments may arise, and tears are likely to flow, but we also share togetherness and a generous spirit. Isn’t that what we, as parents, truly wish to instill in our children? Ultimately, our kids often teach us the most valuable lessons about giving.
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In summary, while our family’s Giving Day may not unfold as perfectly as envisioned, the essence of love and generosity shines through, reminding us of what truly matters.
Keyphrase: Giving Day
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