Good People

Good People.. Bad Presents! Been there, done that. I am a ‘good people’ who has bought bad presents. So with this Christmas season sneaking up on us I write today’s BP BUYER BEWARE!! There are just too many ways to go wrong. As a guy, I am starting to see little flags to BAD PRESENTS, but still at times do not even see them when waving in the wind (hidden) in plain sight. So here are a few tell tale signs of the in famous bad gift. This is not an exact science BUT rather a few good rules of thumb regarding GIFT BUYING DON’T’S. RULE 1 If it says ‘As Seen on TV’ on the box.. beware! It could be a greatdeal, but it could be the ROMCO Pocket Food Processor for only $19.99… and ifyou act now you will receive a free set of steak knives that (as demonstrated inthe ad) are so sharp they can cut through a Buick like butter! RULE 2 When buying Jewelry, buying in BULK is a bad idea. I once bought myvwife this collection of jewelry ( a special one time offer ) that if all thevpieces were linked together you use them as chains on your snow tires. My wifevwas gracious, but.. it is a point of amusement for her today. RULE 3 A personal gift should not be manufactured by Black & Decker. RULE 4 Diet, Exercise, Weight Loss, and/or Hair Removal products no matter how much any are needed are cautionary purchases from husbands to wives. RULE 5 Bad presents go both ways.. so don’t you ladies think everything you buy is a gem. Don’t confuse needed with wanted. We guys have feelings too…PULL MY FINGER. RULE 6 Flowers and the above mentioned jewelry are mysteries to me.. but are the way to a woman’s heart. At least this is what I am reminded of every birthday, Christmas, Valentines Day, and anniversary. So my rule of thumb here is .. when in doubt ask the lady salesperson. Well so there you have it. Another season of shopping moments of adventure and misadventure are just waiting to happen. In the end, it really is the thoughtthat counts, BUT.. a good present is really nifty too... and is considered good thinking. In summary, gift buying for.. Valentines Day, birthdays, anniversaries, and the moment a man pops the question are just like Christmas and all hold the risk of‘good intentions being bad presents’. My prayer this year as every year is that all men stay off THIN ICE while buying, and you ladies be merciful in the gifts you are about to receive (but may not have wanted). Oh Lord, grant us SHOPPING MERCIES and SHOPPING DISCERNMENT led by your Spirit. Amen, and amen, and Whew! May God bless your day, and Christmas season where presents received and given proper perspective and pale in importance when compared to celebrating the birth of Jesus. May we slow our minds and warm our hearts to this amazing time of year. May God bless us with the peace that passes all understanding while standing in line doing our Christmas shopping, trudging the winter wonderland, or stuck in rush hour traffic. Jeff I didn't write this either. Thanks Sis G Rev. Londa Picard