Winter So(u)lstice

It comes now, the slowly transition of short days to longer days.  The re-birthing of light from the dark womb of deep winter.  It is a gift of the season transformations.  I love being in an area that there are actual 4 distinct seasons to experience. 
 
Gifting comes from the heart and love - not the commercial merchandising where the words are in bold huge letters GIFTS - BUY - HAPPY   
Not really.  It is the Love behind a gift  that makes a gift felt.  A gift is not given out of conditional specifications. Things that come from just doing because are not as special.  The energy around is felt.   
Not giving matters too.  I have realised that there is a specific pleasure and satisfaction that comes from an actual box wrapped in ribbons and bows, opening it and knowing it is for you.  Whether you really appreciate the gift item itself, that action of anticipation and opening it is a real emotion or even a combination of several.  It is an experience and tittilating.
Too many boxes however I think that excitement is lessened.  Too many boxes and the experience ends up overwhelming and dulls appreciation.  There is alot to be said for less is better.  But only when the expectations have been learned to be tempered.  Overindulgence  doesn't make up for what is missing or bring acceptance, for anything thing.  But, I speak from being somewhat non materialistic and not comfortable with much of what others view as luxury  and that being affluent is something required.  
So my opinion is developed from my life experiences and what I perceive within my own realm of thoughts.  (As most opinions are).