Tag: Christmas

Believe it or not, Christmas is now just a few days away. Have you found that perfect gift (or at least some kind of gift) for that cyclist in your life (or even for yourself)? Well, don’t worry. 

Unfortunately, your options may be limited at this point regarding purchasing something over the internet. Retailers cut off shipping options for gifts to arrive before or by the big day. But you can still give something meaningful yet simple. Here are a couple options to think about.

Gift Certificate From an Online Cycling Retailer

Many people think giving someone a gift card at Christmas is thoughtless. They believe it requires little effort by the gift giver and illustrates their lack of care for the person. However, I would disagree with both of those views.

The people to whom we are the closest and care the most about are also the most difficult for us to buy a gift. That’s because the closer we are to someone, the more we know their likes and dislikes. Plus, if we truly didn’t care for someone, we wouldn’t bother to give them anything.

That said, a gift card allows the recipient to get exactly what they want instead of the gift giver taking a guess. Why take the chance that you’ll get the wrong thing or something they won’t like? Personally, I find this to be a respectful option.

Additionally, a gift card saves you (as the gift giver) from having to return an item. You might find out that you either can’t get your money back or that you, as the gift giver or the recipient, are forced to take a store credit or something similar.

True Spirit of the Holiday Season

With all the adulation around the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of consumerism and spending money we really don’t have. It’s important to not forget the true reason behind the Christmas season of peace on earth and love towards our fellow man and woman.

There’s no more poignant gift to give (or receive) than that of time spent with friends and family. We should all pause to remember that Christmas is not about the physical gifts we give or receive. It’s about showing the people we care about what they mean to us.

If you live far away from people you care for, the best gift you can send is a Christmas card filled with written sentiments and wishes for a forthcoming new year (either by phone or even a Zoom call). These acts will be remembered in the year ahead more than any physical gift you give.

Last Thoughts

Gift-giving is a stressful proposition. However, it doesn’t have to be. And it doesn’t have to be about a physical gift you buy for someone. The important thing for most people (cyclists and non-cyclists included) is to be thought about and remembered during the holidays. 

The holiday season can be a lonely and sad time for many of us. Let’s not forget what this season is truly about. Merry Christmas everyone and peace and love to you and your families.