The article explores the author's transition from Colombia to the Netherlands where they initially felt unappreciated receiving secondhand gifts for their birthday. Initially, the author struggled with this custom, perceiving it as a lack of thoughtfulness from friends. However, over time, they recognized the significance and effort behind these gifts, which focused more on personal needs rather than materialism. The experience reflects cultural differences in gift-giving, with the author now teaching their child to embrace the thoughtful nature of secondhand gifting.
After all, the effort and thoughtfulness behind a gift means more than a shiny new box and a price tag. The gifts I received were focused on my needs and desires.
In the community I grew up in, it was not common to give secondhand gifts - especially for a birthday or the holidays.
I struggled to wrap my head around the secondhand gifts. I felt like my friends weren't truly appreciating me: Didn't they care enough to get me something new?
I began to see how nice it can really be. It was nice that my friends thought so hard about what I might enjoy.
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