There was a time when life was far less complicated and people bought gifts for others (no gift receipt required) and they were graciously received. What happened? At Christmas, kids hand their parents what feels like a list of hostage demands and are angry when they open gifts and do not receive the presents they “ordered” (often a list upwards of $700.00). Husbands pick out a gift for their wives who reprimand their spouse and return it for what they want. This results in husbands “giving up” and telling wives to pick out their own gifts. The whole thing has gotten out of hand. Whatever happened to the days when one put thought into buying something for their partner who graciously accepted and appreciated the effort? Exercise: The next time you give your partner a gift, each of you discuss what it felt like to give and to receive.