The views expressed in this article belong to the reporter, and do not reflect the views held by Rockbridge County High School, the Prowler Staff, and its members.

Giving a gift to someone is a gesture of kindness, friendship, and love. For the holidays, it can be difficult to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Thankfully today, finding a gift for every type of enthusiast is only an internet search away. There are gift guides from the practical to the luxury, from the inexpensive to extravagant, and from the common to the uncommon. Gift guides are produced by newspapers such as the New York Times, internet news like BuzzFeed, stores such as Macy’s, and television shows like the Today Show. With so many gift ideas at your fingertips you’re sure to find something for just about everyone young or old.

 Every year people spend hundreds of dollars on holiday gifts. Whether they spend a small or large amount, ultimately people are in search of gifts that are thoughtful and hold meaning. Sometimes it’s not about the physical gift but what the gift represents.

A great gift option is one that will help relive good memories with friends and family. One way to do this is to create a photo album or a video of past photos, songs and moments shared. Establishing a new tradition or memento reflecting on a particular memory is another great idea.

Giving the gift of time is another great way to show someone you care.  Taking a friend to lunch, helping a neighbor with household chores, reading stories to children at the library, or volunteering your time to a local charity in someone’s honor are all great gifts of time. 

Creating new memories is another great gift.  This gift can be an elaborate vacation or something more budget friendly such as a hike, bikeride, or picnic.  

Whether you’re looking to create a memory or buy an expensive gift for someone, remember the greatest gift of all is kindness and love. The compassion and meaning behind a gift is what makes the gift special, so whatever you decide on be sure it will mean a lot to the recipient.