Ralph Waldo Emerson had interesting and commendable thoughts and opinions regarding gift-giving: "Gifts of one who loved me--Twas high time they came; When he ceased to love me, Time they stopped for shame."

Emerson, nineteenth century transcendental philosopher and theologian, observed in his essay appropriately entitled "Gifts" that flowers and fruits are always appropriate gifts "because they are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world." Emerson went on to observe that things of necessity are also always appropriate gifts as well.

Emerson made the significant statement that the only true gift is a portion of ourselves. Something we create is of more significance than anything we could possibly buy in a store: "it is a cold, lifeless business when you go to the shops to buy me something which does not represent your life and talent, but a goldsmith's."

But let's face it, modern man is a materialistic creature, unlike Emerson. Too bad we don't still read Emerson's essays and aren't influenced by his advice. Of course, commerce as we know it would be seriously impacted.

Shopping for Christmas gifts is a case in point. The frenetic pace of shopping madness increases unabated throughout December. The shopping itself takes on such dimensions that with many people, the material supercedes the spiritual aspect of the holiday.

When Christmas comes and all the gifts are finally handed out, matters are not in the least resolved, as a good portion of those gifts will end up being returned soon after. (The heaviest shopping day of the entire year is December 26th) So just when we think our Christmas shopping is finally done, it's only just begun!

Then there's the matter of re-gifting. That's the most bizarre ritual of all. This refers to presents that don't come with any clue as to where they were purchased. Even Sherlock Holmes would scratch his head in perplexity.

These are gifts that no one in their right mind would want to keep: purple plaid socks, perfume that would make a skunk turn up its tail in disgust. Well, you get the picture! So what does one do with such odious presents? Naturally, we save them and give them to people we don't like or those who have given us their re-gifts. You know you've gone full cycle when one of your re-gifts ends up gifted back to you. There is nothing quite like Christmas American style!

To avoid mall madness and still manage to give gifts that friends, family and fellow workers will appreciate definitely takes time and planning. Internet shopping is one approach never dreamed of in Emerson's day. At Gift finding service of LazyGift.com you can find examples of thoughtful gifts if you go there and select 'thoughtful' as a gift type. Happy shopping for that special occasion gift that will be appreciated and well remembered!