Is It Just Me, Or Do YOU Hate This Question Too?
"Can you send me a list, please?"
This is my parents' way of asking for my "wish list" for my upcoming birthday and Christmas. I realize they want an idea of what to look for, but I don't like it. Never have. I have such disdain for this question, for many reasons. Allow me to explain.
First, if I'm compiling a list of things I want, it feels like a list of demands -- things I simply must have or I will be 100% incapable of having a merry Christmas. It may not be what it seems like to them, but it's what it feels like to me.
Second, I rarely, if ever, ask what someone "wants". Maybe I'm blessed with an accurate-shopping gene. I always manage to get the best gifts for those on my list...simply because I know them, I know what they like, and I know what they'd appreciate. I'm proud to say I've never had a "do you have a gift receipt?" request in all my years of gift giving. Either I have some very polite people in my life, or I just shop with THEM in mind.
Finally, if I would like a big-ticket item, I feel awful putting that on the list. Let's say I want a tablet (shhh...I really do!), but the one I want is well over $400. I don't feel comfortable putting that on a wish list. It just seems greedy. Like when you check out a bridal registry, and the bride has requested $40 napkin rings or a $700 vacuum. I don't have that kind of cash, nor do I think ANY napkin ring is worth more than $4. Call me a realist. I just think that's a silly request.
So...is it just me? Or do you go to town on your wish list and expect to receive everything on it? I guess I just assume if you're close enough to buy me a gift, you know me well enough to know what I'd like.
(PS It's a loaded Samsung Galaxy 7.7 ;) )