The more I stare at the beautifully wrapped box of Godiva goodness in front of me, the more I feel compelled to write this piece. There are a lot of things going through my mind right now, and to put it simply, I'm shocked. I never thought there'd come a time when I'd have a serious problem with free chocolate.
We've all heard it before: if it's your coworker's birthday, buy her chocolate. If you need a last minute mother's day gift, head to the chocolate aisle. If your girlfriend starts screaming at you for no apparent reason, seriously consider keeping a stash of chocolate around at all times. (Maybe also consider seeing a relationship counsellor.) But the point is, the gift of chocolate is a great one, for no matter what event or which female recipient. But is it really?
I'd like to take a moment to scowl at society. Who thought it was a good idea to standardize the giving of chocolate to women on every occasion and then shine a searing spotlight on physical appearance?
And so begins the conundrum: a kind-hearted soul gives a woman a box of chocolate. What does she do with it? She has several options.
Option 1: she eats the chocolate, but then feels guilty for indulging and becomes increasingly self-conscious about her body.
Option 2: she puts the chocolates on a shelf and they sit there, prettily collecting dust until they expire. She feels bad for letting them go to waste.
Option 3: she gives them away to the next girl when the next appropriate occasion rolls around (she doesn't have to wait very long). Again, she feels bad for not appreciating the gift. She's also just pushing her troubles to the people around her, and that's not going to solve anything.
At this point, you, being the keen observer that you are, note that none of the aforementioned scenarios end in a completely satisfying manner. The solution to the chocolate problem, in my opinion, comes not from the poor recipient of the chocolate, but from the kind giver. In no way do I wish to deter these generous people from expressing themselves through gifts, don't get me wrong, but there are endless things in the world to offer! There are practical, unique, and meaningful things, from home decor to office supplies to electronic gadgets to daily accessories. So please, challenge yourselves. If it's your coworker's birthday, buy her some of that really neat yarn because you know she loves to knit. If you need a last minute mother's day gift, look into the newest novel by her favourite author. If your girlfriend starts screaming at you for no apparent reason, give her a handwritten letter or a teddy bear to hold. (Still keep your relationship counsellor's number around, just in case.)
So please, think twice before you beeline to the chocolates section next time you have to pick out a gift. Anything remotely personalized is better than the generic, and who knows, you might save her a lot more hassle than you think.
Friday 1 August 2014
Wednesday 30 April 2014
Milestones: Summer 2014 Letter Series
A.M. You have been nothing but wonderful since the day I met you. You are funny, sassy, and so, so supportive. Thank you for teaching me so much this past year --I learned so much more than I expected to-- and thank you for always being around when I needed you. I know there's some things this year that haven't worked out the way you wanted them to, but don't lose faith in yourself. A huge part of me wants to see you go on your great adventure, but there's a part that can't help but hope you'll stick around for a little while longer. Either way, I hope you catch the stars you've been shooting for.
B.W. You had me at 'hello'. By the first time you smiled and said 'hi', I was intrigued.You are one of the kindest and sweetest people I've met in a while. I've always felt like just another face in the crowd, but you've taught me that perhaps reaching out to people can be as easy as a smile and the word 'hi'. I guess I have a lot to learn from your easy-going, charismatic personality. I'd really like to get to know you better. Keep smiling :)
C.L. You are such an inspiration to me. You have such a bright and open attitude; it makes you so easy to talk to. Whenever I'm around you I feel so much more motivated to keep myself healthier and happier. I love that you have an absolute vision for your personal and professional future -- and the work ethic to back it up. I'm really glad I got a chance to know you this year, but I can't believe you're leaving already! I'd love to stay in touch and get together again sometime.
C.K. I love the way you present yourself; you're so mature and soft spoken. Everything you say and do makes so much sense. You have a calm levelheadedness about you, yet you're not at all cold or unapproachable. In a place where a lot of people seem to come from relatively similar backgrounds, you quietly yet poignantly remind me that everyone has their own unique story, and this is what sets us apart from each other. Although I don't know much about your past, I know that it's made you thoughtful and cautious, and this may not be such a bad thing. Through your example, I hope I may always remember to keep an open mind and be reminded that few words are often more powerful than many. I hope you continue to face every challenge with a brave heart and a steady mind.
N.L. You are the ultimate role model. You are dedicated as a student, elegant as a lady, caring as a sister. Beyond that, you are talented, kind, and ambitious. You're the kind of girl who looks beautiful in a spotlight, but always directs it humbly towards others. I admire that you have chosen to pursue what you believe suits you best, despite the objections of others. I admire that you take risks for your happiness and success, because I know you can make it all worth it. But while chasing your big dreams, you always seem to find time to pursue your passions and appreciate the little things in life. Your life is a palette of the richest colours; I hope continue to paint with every single one of them.
R.S. I'm so glad I met you on that trip. You make every possible thing more fun. I can always count on you to cheer me up and share a laugh, and I really appreciate that. I love that you're up for anything, and you're not afraid to put yourself out there, especially for your friends. But despite all the craziness, you always know when to set it all aside and take responsibility. It's a hard balance to strike sometimes, but you do it admirably well. I hope your lively spirit never fades. Thank you for all the adventures; here's to many more.
B.W. You had me at 'hello'. By the first time you smiled and said 'hi', I was intrigued.You are one of the kindest and sweetest people I've met in a while. I've always felt like just another face in the crowd, but you've taught me that perhaps reaching out to people can be as easy as a smile and the word 'hi'. I guess I have a lot to learn from your easy-going, charismatic personality. I'd really like to get to know you better. Keep smiling :)
C.L. You are such an inspiration to me. You have such a bright and open attitude; it makes you so easy to talk to. Whenever I'm around you I feel so much more motivated to keep myself healthier and happier. I love that you have an absolute vision for your personal and professional future -- and the work ethic to back it up. I'm really glad I got a chance to know you this year, but I can't believe you're leaving already! I'd love to stay in touch and get together again sometime.
C.K. I love the way you present yourself; you're so mature and soft spoken. Everything you say and do makes so much sense. You have a calm levelheadedness about you, yet you're not at all cold or unapproachable. In a place where a lot of people seem to come from relatively similar backgrounds, you quietly yet poignantly remind me that everyone has their own unique story, and this is what sets us apart from each other. Although I don't know much about your past, I know that it's made you thoughtful and cautious, and this may not be such a bad thing. Through your example, I hope I may always remember to keep an open mind and be reminded that few words are often more powerful than many. I hope you continue to face every challenge with a brave heart and a steady mind.
N.L. You are the ultimate role model. You are dedicated as a student, elegant as a lady, caring as a sister. Beyond that, you are talented, kind, and ambitious. You're the kind of girl who looks beautiful in a spotlight, but always directs it humbly towards others. I admire that you have chosen to pursue what you believe suits you best, despite the objections of others. I admire that you take risks for your happiness and success, because I know you can make it all worth it. But while chasing your big dreams, you always seem to find time to pursue your passions and appreciate the little things in life. Your life is a palette of the richest colours; I hope continue to paint with every single one of them.
R.S. I'm so glad I met you on that trip. You make every possible thing more fun. I can always count on you to cheer me up and share a laugh, and I really appreciate that. I love that you're up for anything, and you're not afraid to put yourself out there, especially for your friends. But despite all the craziness, you always know when to set it all aside and take responsibility. It's a hard balance to strike sometimes, but you do it admirably well. I hope your lively spirit never fades. Thank you for all the adventures; here's to many more.
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