It’s been a quiet Monday after Thanksgiving.
A couple of things happened during the holiday that I thought were worth writing about.
First, I sent Thanksgiving greetings to many of my friends, especially those I hadn’t been in touch with for a while—just to let them know I was thinking of them during the holiday. Some people might say that thoughts are cheap, but I think otherwise.
Second, I invited my sister’s son over, since Thanksgiving in America is really a time for family reunions. He came with some expensive gifts for us, which was very kind of him. We had a wonderful time together—him, my children, and us.
Yesterday I wrote to him, “Next time, don’t buy gifts again. Your coming is gift enough. If you really want to bring something, just bring a little something to eat, like snacks.”
He replied, “Auntie, this is just good manners. We Beijingers care about showing courtesy, don’t we?”
I wrote back, “I’ve never been one to fuss over formalities like that. The older I get, the more I value simplicity and substance. Besides, people don’t really lack material things anymore. Spending too much money just feels like a waste to me.
I often tell my younger friends that sometimes a small, unintentional gesture or even a simple greeting from the younger generation is enough to brighten an elder’s day—or even longer.”
He hasn’t replied since. I hope he’ll keep in mind what I said next time. At this stage of life, I’ve come to believe that thoughtfulness is never cheap—it’s often the most precious thing. What I cherish is his presence. I don’t want his trips burdened by airfares and expensive gifts. Some things mean far more than anything money can buy.