Gift-Wrapping As A Ritual
Growing up, we were not good at gift wrapping. Call it a mix of impatience, careless hand-eye coordination, and overall apathy to the wrapping process. But as we got older, we came to understand that wrapping is not just about concealing the gift, but rather a way of honoring the person receiving it.
We’re still not fabulous at it, truth be told. But we’ve gotten way better. But there is something incredibly endearing about the whole process.
Impression and Presentation
One of the biggest benefits we found with putting more time and care into the wrapping process was how much more special it makes the gift. When we give someone a gift with wrapping, that shows that we really care, by making their gift personal to them.
Taking the time to carefully craft something with the particular person in mind can make all the difference. In fact, this is how people interpret gifts. Even if it’s only a pair of socks, those same socks turn from something casual to give to someone into something truly special. And that’s purely because that it was presented in a way that was specifically for them.
Self-Expression
Gift-wrapping can actually be a craft - and there is truly no right or wrong way because it allows you to get as creative as you want to. Some people even use wrapping to their advantage by sprucing up the item or making a good first impression with someone.
There are even comical expressions made through gift-wrapping. Take, for instance, the box trick, where one gift is hidden in many different-sized boxes. This will thrill and excite most people, as they will have no idea of what you’ve given them.
Surprise Factor
There is a two-fold concept when it comes to gifting someone a gift-wrapped present. The first is the initial shock that comes with a surprise.
The second is the shock of not knowing what the surprise of what’s inside could be. This is what makes gift-wrapping so magical. As the giver, you have the honor of watching the recipient bubble up inside as their angst grows in anticipation for the moment when they finally get to see their gift.
It's easy to see why there is such significance and importance to gift-wrapping if you look closely at what is happening. When people give gifts selflessly, it moves other people in ways that we may never understand. Small acts of kindness can really make the world a better place.
