For without that dedicated effort, gifts don’t matter, because they do not leave a lasting impression. I implore you to give the gift of memories, because true memories are those that connect two or more people together with a feeling and an experience, so by giving yourself or perhaps a new experience you can share together, you are giving something that will last for as long as the mind endures. If someone is sad or if it seems like they’re spinning their wheels, then plan them a trip, and be sure to add an extra seat for yourself, because new experiences shared together are those that seer into the mind and heart.
Now, if you still want to see their face light up, consider your gifts deeply, and give something more that will last and better their lives. One of my goto gifts this season is music, because with music you can relax, or you can vent, or you can feel inspired, in love, or you can channel your inner demons. Whatever it is you feel, music has an answer. That’s why I like to give the gift of vinyl music, since not only does it sound better, it’s physical and it lasts forever with proper care.
You might be asking why vinyl? Well, vinyl is the last true physical form of music. But wait, what about CDs and 8-tracks? Well, they are indeed physical forms of music but they tend to not last near as long as vinyl, nor do they sound quite as good. Besides, you need a laser disc player to play CDs, and an outdated player for 8-tracks, but with vinyl, turntables are still around, and new models are made all of the time. The sound quality difference with vinyl is apparent, especially when listening to a VMP record, because the sound is warming, crisper, more raw, and much more dynamic, with beautiful highs and deep lows that sore and boom unlike the overly processed digital music that is popular today. So this season, give the gift of new experience, of love, and smiles, and hugs, and of expression through music.
(Main photo by morains via Flickr)