They say it's your birthday

When people ask what you want for your birthday and you tell them, you are committing a charitable act saving them from thinking too hard.  I've spent the last couple of months orchestrating ways to get what I want, gift cards to Nordstrom or cash that I won't feel breaks the spirit of the "no shopping rule".  So when I received several gifts like that and was told "go buy yourself something nice, something you really want", my response was, "gosh, thanks so much, I will", and really I was jumping up and down inside with glee and anticipation of a new purse, or the highest red heels I could find, or jeans, or a floaty airy blouse or Sledge t-shirt, or . 

I literally went into a catatonic trance thinking about the possibilities. Then someone at my party, someone who reads my blog and is trying to ruin my life suggested it might be in the best "spirit" of things to donate the cash to a charity.  Huh?  After all that work, all those hints and suggestions, all the cajoling, bribing, threats and tantrums, I get what I want and they have the audacity to suggest I give it all away?  Were they trying to yank the crack needle right out of my arm?  I felt like someone, after a one year suspension from chocolate, had given me a a huge brownie with nuts and hot fudge, let me take a bite and yanked away the entire confection.  Truthfully, it wasn't a bad idea.  Especially given the fact that I've made it really clear I don't NEED any more stuff.  Although I am going to write a post about how I ruined a pair of jeans painting a friend's house and I really do need another pair, but back to the subject...I don't really need them, but I WANT them.  And that is the distinction. 

I remember so clearly the first time I got the NEED vs. WANT discussion from my parents.  Growing up they would always ask. "is it a need or a want" question when I'd ask for something.  My answer was always NEED. Such a sarcastic kid. 

Comments

[DITS]

Maria, thanks... so far I've only spent 10% but I love your suggestion. You are right about giving back being an act of kindness to ourselves. Very insightful!
DITS

[Maria]

I'm with Kelly...it's your birthday! Live it up! Or, you could donate 10% and spend the 90% in something for yourself. It will make you feel better and that, is all around a well deserved birthday act of kindness to YOURSELF. Who says we can't be philantropist to ourselves once a year? Have fun! Great blog by the way! :D

[Kelly Morrison]

I think you should just use your gift cards! It's your birthday for pity's sake and you deserve some fun! Enjoy them!