Nowadays, we live in a ludicrously gift-giving society. It is often claimed that people offer presents without taking into account the true importance of doing so. But does it have to be that way? Has gift-giving really lost its meaning? My personal experience on 2 different occasions tells me that many gifts could be described as priceless or innapropriate depending on the particular timing they are given. Specifically, I have received 2 gifts which have made a huge impression on me, a hand-made album and a mock watch.

One of the best gifts I have ever received was a hand-made album which contained a great deal of photos about my schoolife. I was offered this album as a farewell gift when I finished the primary school. In particular, one of my best friends, George, decided to give this present to only a few people. Of course, I consider it to be valuable and original, as it will always bring me back to my childhood. As soon as I took the album, I felt really enchated and emotional. I realised I had made life-lasting relations and friendships. In fact, I believe this special album is the most exorbitant present I have ever been given.

But not all gifts are chosen with such care. I will never forget it when my cousin, Marie, gave me a fake brand-named watch. Surely, I was negatively surprised as soon as I found out how expensive my gift was. Indeed, I did not really want to believe that my closest relative had offered me such a tacky imitation of watch. Of course, I was not that amazed when the watch stopped working in a matter of minutes. In any case, I did not expect my cousin to give me such a horrible gift, especially because it was a birthday present...

To sum up, we can see that giving a tasteful and special present is not so easy. I am totally convinced that most of you have already given or been offered terrible and awful gifts. To my mind, a gift is most meaningful when it is made with love, care and effort. So, as the old saying goes,'It is the thought that counts'.