Money is a good store of value, but a useless gift by itself. The value of a gift is not in the gift but in its utility, permanence and of course the giver.
The people I have given the most money have often turned back to tell me that I do not give them gifts. It used to frustrate me, but now I get it. Actually, I used to know this when I was broke. Then I was a master at seeking cute gifts. When I got a little cash and money became a signal of the value I was providing, I thought giving off my stash was the greatest gift I could bestow. And boy, have I been wrong.
Please don’t get me wrong, money is a necessary gift in many instances, but don’t expect it to be memorable. It is not designed to be. Even those you lend money to, forget. Not to talk of those you gift it to.
My best appliance has been a gift from my man Tuts. It was a gift for attending his wedding. Didn’t think much of it then, but it has served me well. Every time I have to use it, I remember Tuts fondly and forget how much of a pain in the ass he is.
If you learn anything from my blabbing, it is this – learn the art of gifting, by first removing money as an alternative. Add money, chocolate and flowers, only after something functional is gotten. The more permanent the functionality of your gift, the more permanent your memory.
– Osasu Oviawe
Coda:
Time is a great gift. I remember people that are there and those that are absent at pivotal times in my life. Time is not money.