It's taken me years - nay, decades - to realize that buying presents/drinks/dinners/emus for others not only improves my karma, it destroys my bank account.
I used to shower my friends and family with gifts. From packs of gum to trips abroad, I used to be that person. I wasn't taken advantage of, nor did I ever expect anything back. I just loved giving people presents.
Don't you worry, I take care of myself. I have a closet (and floor) full of clothes I adore and a belly that's girth directly correlates to the frequency I eat food made in a commercial kitchen.
So, yeah.
Do I stop giving presents? Yes and no. I stop with myself first. Maybe I learn to cook - I like homemade food, even when it starts out in box form. Actually, especially when it starts out in box form. I start working out more frequently so I can fit back into all the clothes I adore. And I learn to appreciate all the other things I already have.
As for the presents for friends and family, I think most of them would rather hear from me than get a typewriter in the mail. I love movies at home and Charles Shaw. I like playing board games even when I lose. I like the intangibles of friendship that I used to quantify with credit card purchases.
Note to self: substitute time for neatly wrapped packages.
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