Of the things that weigh on a traveler’s mind (procuring documentation, securing valuables, navigating), buying souvenirs for her friends back home is definitely in the top five. But I’m not sure I want to bring back gifts for my friends. I love them and appreciate them, but how is a keychain or a piece of leather embroidered with the name of the city supposed to convey that? I think those sorts of things, more often than not, say, “Here, friend. Please know that I thought of you when I was walking through a bunch of makeshift stands where shady people peddled their cheap wares. No, it was not at the last minute, and yes, you can throw it away within the next few days.”
Everyone has a few dumb, useless things sitting in their sock drawer as a result of a friend’s travels. Given this prevalence, it’s no longer a thoughtful gesture but a somewhat expected assignment. “Damn,” I often say to myself when I think of all the acquaintances that know I am abroad. I have two very close friends studying in South America, too. I think that we should all three agree to not get our friends back home anything so as to avoid competition between us for the best gift and any hurt feelings from people who did not receive one.
And I know what some of you are thinking: “But I really WANT to get my friends a little something, a keepsake.”
You can’t fool me, and stop trying to fool yourself. That thought is just a lousy effort towards sentimentality. True friends won’t care.
So, my America-dwelling friends, get excited for my return! At that time, you can expect a big hug, a few funny stories and NO tango dancer finger puppets made out of corn husks.
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2 comments:
Uh! I wanted my name printed on a grain of sand, then that sand grain trapped in a small glass tube, then that tube affixed from a leather lanyard! Even if my full name didn't fit on the sand grain.
i am still expecting a gift. just saying.
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