AJ On .. Lists

Remember AJ On .. lists? I cannot believe that is nearly two years ago! I know it is considered a cliché but where has the time gone? I had intended to make a follow-up sooner but I found I had lost my ‘roundtoit’ – until now!
My updated ‘Amazon List’ for everyone:
* clean water
* hygienic toilets and washing facilities
* shelter and food
* access to healthcare
But .. now it is the season of goodwill. It is the season of exchanging gifts. So ..
AJ On .. how to purchase a gift
Thinking about what to give can be a problem for many. I can understand some people may need a hint (or three) as they may find the recipient ‘difficult’ to think what would be an appropriate gift which always nearly ends up as aftershave or socks! (not that there is anything wrong with those!)
Giving hints is one thing, but actually saying exactly what you want I find bizarre. ‘Ah yes!’ I hear you say, ‘but it alleviates the inappropriate or the ill-thought purchase, especially in these times of soaring prices.’ I wonder how often may be heard, ‘It is a gift the giver thinks will be appreciated.’ .. or .. ‘It is really a gift the giver would like to receive.’ I understand the reasoning but, to me, that goes against the gift of giving. It is not the art of giving or the reason why we give and receive gifts. Think about the Magi.
AJ On .. how to receive a gift
If a person truly wishes to give a gift then receive it graciously – no matter what it is. If the present has been given out of a genuine belief both lives will be enriched and the bond between giver and recipient strengthened, then accept it kindly and generously.  If you are given a present you wish you hadn’t still accept it graciously.
 You have already received a gift this Christmas and every other Christmas; the greatest gift you could imagine, a gift too wonderful for words. Christmas is a celebration of that perfect gift. It is a gift no money could ever buy. It is a gift God paid the biggest price anyone could ever pay. It is a gift for everyone, anytime, anywhere. God gave His only Son. Wow! What a present!
 
No matter what faith, or none, may I wish you all a peaceful Christmas.