What would Jesus Buy?

I am reminded this holiday season, as I am every holiday season of what is most important, what I care for, and of course; what I want for Christmas. Every year I am the pain in the butt family member who refuses to make a list of cds and gift certificates and such that I want for Christmas. Its a struggle every year. As a Buddhist I don't need nor want material gifts from people. Don't get me wrong. I appreciate every gift that has ever been given to me. I don't look down on any one who gives or receives a gift because I understand the love behind it is what is actually important. So its difficult to make a list, of things when really I'd like to take out the middle man and just take the love you offer through the gifts. I always feel bad for my family and friends who feel obligated to buy me things despite my claims because they want to show their love, and since I don't make a list its always difficult to guess what I would want. But everyone needs to understand that the best way to show some stubborn, opinionated, college student, Buddhist that you love her is through the things that don't come in a box. Sit down and have a conversation with me, read my favorite book The Buddha and the Terrorist, Call me up unexpectedly just to chat, volunteer somewhere and tell me all about it, donate to a charity under my name, tell me something I don't know about you, introduce me to something new, ect. Of course, I can't deny that I too ask for things that I need like financial help for Semester at Sea or school in general. But i would honestly prefer anything from the prior list than a check any day. Just food for thought. Merry Christmas.