Why a gift from across the miles can mean so much.
I was born and raised in Akron, Ohio. Just after I graduated from college at Kent State University in 1996, I accepted a job in Richmond, Virginia, about 450 miles away. Since then, I have lived in Boston, Los Angeles, and now Seattle, which is 2,400 miles away. I love my family, and I go back to visit multiple times a year, but I opted to move away.
Whether it’s for a job opportunity, a better climate, or a chance to experience something different, many Americans have made the same choice as me and live in a different state than their parents. And with each move, more us are finding that we have friends in a variety of cities throughout the country.
With loved ones all over the United States, it can be difficult to celebrate in person for special occasions. That’s where sending gifts from afar can be so important.
I’ll never forget one of the Christmases over the years when I wasn’t able to go home to Ohio. Although I knew I would be celebrating the holiday with friends, I was still missing my family and their love.
A few days before Christmas, a box arrived from my Mom.
Side note: Receiving a gift from my Mom is always one of the most spectacular events, because she puts such care into it—finding the perfect gift, wrapping it beautifully, and then putting a riddle or clue on the tag so that you can guess what’s inside.
The box was filled with a handful of small, beautifully wrapped, thoughtful gifts as well as a card that said to open them as I wished. Instead of opening the gifts all in one sitting on Christmas morning, I chose to spread them out over a few days. Each time I opened a present, I felt a warm hug from my Mom. It was almost as wonderful as being with her in person.
Sending long-distance gifts can be especially meaningful when it’s not a major holiday or occasion.
Let’s say you have a friend who is sick or feeling sad. When you live in different states, it’s not feasible to swing by with a pot of chicken soup or take her out for a spa day to lift her spirits. But sending her a multi-day gift package can be the next best thing. With each gift she opens, she’ll know that you are thinking about her.
Although cards and emails and flowers are nice, sending a gift package to loved ones across the miles creates an experience that they will treasure forever. Think of the possibilities—long-distance relationships, kids away at school, frequent travelers … But more on all of those next time.
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