Chanukah Zombie and Kwaanza-Bot wouldn't put up with this...

Now I understand what my friend Floyd was harping on about.

I came into work today, and received a flurry of gifts from no less than four co-workers (and a few more cards in my mailbox). I didn't get anyone a gift (except for my designated Secret Santa recipient) and sent out ZERO cards. I can't be bothered with cards, no matter what time of the year, and I can't afford to give everyone here a damn gift. They did this on my birthday, too. I appreciate the gesture, sure, but I seriously hope they aren't expecting any reciprocation.

Then, is it even worse that I don't feel bad about not getting them gifts? Or that I never even considered it an option? Should it be assumed that we have to exchange gifts? Isn't saying "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays" enough? I'm just not wired that way. People view that as selfish, self-centered, & cheap. I think of it as having priorities: myself. I spend too much time worrying about my life and it's complications. Christ, if I had to keep pausing to fret over people's hurt feelings over a stupid gift, I wouldn't get anything done! I'd barely be able to leave the house!

Maybe I'm just blowing things out of proportion, making something out of nothing. I know I'm not alone in these feelings. Whatever. In a week, it will be inconsequential. In a week, the big social faux pas du jour (wow) will be "Why wasn't I invited to his/her New Year's Party???" Piss off and stop being so goddamn self-conscious!!!

Merry X-Mas, kids!!