[zelienople]

Occasion-related giving is madness on a finite planet. It is one of the main drivers of the waste economy. We buy things people don't need and exchange them for things we don't need.

I refuse, on principle, to buy or give or receive gifts for "occasions".

A friend recently had her television fail, out of warranty and could not afford to replace it. I bought her a new one with a 6-year warranty. I bought it on the length and strength of the warranty above all else. That gift was needed and appreciated.

I have no problem giving. I just refuse to do it mindlessly in response to a ringing bell and for no reson other than idiotic social convention.

This is an existential issue at this point.