Gifts

Emerson tells us that gifts should be given from the heart, that is, a "man's biography." Gifts are special and only given when they are a necessity or a piece of the heart. Many believe that a ring or jewelry is a great gift. But it is only a great gift if the person giving it is a goldsmith. Gifts are a piece of you so a shoemaker make shoes, a musician gives a song, a farmer gives food, etc. A gift can be given out of necessity also. If one is in need of shoes or food, it i alright to give them this gift as long as nothing is expected back.

When one receives gifts, they should not be happy or show emotion and gratitude for the gift. It is unbecoming. One should not rejoice or love the gift because they are showing the giver that they love he gift more than they love the giver. The giver wanted to give the gift because they wanted to, not because they are expecting something in return. Do not say thank you because it gives the giver superiority. A gift is something one wants to share about themselves, so the receiver should appreciate that. By saying thank you, you are flattering them. You do not want to say thank you and lose your independence!

"The hand that feeds us is in some danger of being bitten." We do not realize, but when someone provides so much for us, there is a point when you end retaliate. The act of giving is never a malevolent gesture, but it is demeaning. The parent provides for the child up until they leave the house. But through the teenage years, the child begins to retaliate, searching for their independence. They want nothing to do with their parents and show hatred for the parents' superiority and ability to tell the child what to do. They begin to abuse their trust, and their "gifts" of food, clothing, money. If the parent had provided the child with nothing their entire life, there would be no reason to retaliate. If the child is overly provided for the rebellion is even worse. There is a clear balance that must be acquired for parenthood. But as for gifts, gifts should be given for one to cherish or use, not to be frivolous trophys.