Christmas 2011 - Birth of a New Tradition

This is my first post so forgive me if it is not in the right forum.
I just received this e-mail from a friend and wanted to share it. I know not everyone or every Country observes Christmas but we all buy stuff for others at birthdays and other holidays and pretty much whatever Country you may live in is going through some tough times right now so I really liked this idea and hope you do too.


As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!

It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?
Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?

Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down the Benjamines on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.

There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.

Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine. THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.

festivus for the rest of us! get out the aluminum pole as mr constansa would say

you may be surprised to learn that not everybody on this site is an american.

reply to post by JohnySeagull

I am very aware of that but as I said no matter where you live I would guess your economy is not in the best shape and could use a little help locally. Just put your Country wherever it says America.

I am giving a recently awakened family member a BOB. I do not particularly care much for christmas, as I am not christian, but I make a few exceptions to the rule.

So far, that is all my gift list comprises of.

reply to post by habiff


I am all in, and have already sent email to Parents, mother-in-law, and wife. I can not stand buying Chinese products. We already have plans to make some gifts for son's teachers, fellow workers, etc. The key is not even buying paint and supplies from outside US.

I have an idea to toss in with the new spirit of non-consumer junk Christmas. My local community college offers a wide variety of 'continuing education' courses atop the degree programs they are there for. Basically these are just classes running a couple days to a week or more on a wide variety of subjects. $100-$150 is normally the price range and everyone can find something in the catalog.

On the assumption that my little CC is by no means unique, perhaps giving someone the gift of knowledge and self improvement might be the most meaningful gift of all? Just my thinking again...

reply to post by Wrabbit2000


That is a great idea. The gift of education is one that will continue to give for a lifetime.
It also keeps the money in your community.