To many people, Christmas is a very good chance to eat, drink, play & have fun.  Religiously speaking, we celebrate it to commemorate the birth of Jesus.  To me, it is a good chance to show our appreciation to the people around us, like my DEAR colleagues.

This morning I got an e-mail from our "considerate" Human Resources Dept telling us that after "their discussion", they would organize a little gathering to celebrate the festival.  During when, there will be a present exchange.  The arrangement is that our "Big Sec" will draw a "partner" for us and then we have to prepare a X'mas present for him / her at the price "not lower" than $100.

Sorry - I would not participate in this "nonsense" arrangement.  Not to say that I have given my small presents to the colleagues whom I want to show them my appreciation, I'm sick of their "black box operation".  How come they can decide everything without our input?  What is the point to set a minimum price level for the present?

Every year we will get a present from the senior management members.  We are so happy - not because of the present, but the management is appreciated with our support.  It is not a MUST that they have to send us presents.  Without their presents, we can still celebrate our holiday.  If they don't want to give us anything, it's just fine.  Simply saying "Merry Christmas" would be good enough.  What's the point to make up so many excuses???

Even without their presents, I've got quite a lot already.  But I'm ashamed of them ... See my presents from my dear bosses and many other colleagues ...