I once had an argument with someone who said that she thought you should only give gifts which you would like to receive yourself.

I disagree entirely.  We're not all the same and so don't like the same things.  My father put it well when he said that the best gifts are those which the recipient would really like but would never buy for themselves.

And that requires thought doesn't it?  Ever given someone batteries with the label 'toys not included'?  Of course not, so that's why so many of us think more seriously about our friends and neighbours at this time of the year than at any other, as we try to work out what they would really like.  OK, world peace, an end to global warming, no poverty and happiness for everyone might be a bit difficult to organise immediately, but getting everyone vouchers is just a cop out.

One of the best gifts I've ever been given was a set of Imperial spanners.  Thank  you George.

Good luck with your search.

Incidentally, I hope the person who invented the auto correct burns in hello.

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