That is how one 13-year-old girl felt when she received a pet dog as a gift. A successful business woman said that a computer her father gave her when she was in high school was a gift that changed her life. And a newlywed husband felt that his wife’s handmade first-anniversary card was the best gift he had ever received. Each year, many people spend time and effort searching for that “best” gift for a friend or a relative on a special occasion. And most would love to hear a response like those mentioned at the outset. How, then, can you make your gift-giving a source of true happiness for you and for the receiver? And if giving the “best” gift is not possible, what can you do so that your gift will be truly appreciated? Here are some vital point to keep in mind.
The recipient’s desires
A person’s desire has much to do with whether he/she will cherish a gift or not. A key to being aware of a person’s desires is to be a good listener. As you engage in everyday conversation with your friends or relatives, listen closely for clues that indicate their likes and dislikes. Then you may be in a better position to give a gift that they will enjoy.
The recipient’s needs
A recipient may highly cherish even the simplest gift if it fills a particular need. Therefore, be observant and take special note of the person’s circumstances. Is he or she young, old, single, married, divorced, widowed, employed, or retired? Then give thought to what gifts may address a need the person has.
The timing.
The Bible states: “A word spoken at the right time—how good it is!” (Proverbs 15:
23). Just as words spoken at the right time can be very pleasing to the hearer, a gift given at the right time or on the appropriate occasion can contribute greatly to the receiver’s happiness.
The giver’s motives.
It is good to consider whether the recipient might misinterpret the giver’s motives. On the other hand, the giver would do well to examine his or her own motives. If your giving is motivated by genuine love and concern for the recipients, your gifts will likely be received with joy and you will experience the greater happiness that comes from true generosity.
Giving attention to the factors we have discussed can contribute greatly toward your giving gifts that make others happy.