What do you get that special someone for Christmas?  A significant number of students are East are thinking that same question.

In a random survey of 100 Morton East students, 34 students reported they will be giving their significant other a gift.

According to Chat GPT, The tradition of gift giving within relationships has deep historical roots, spanning across cultures and civilizations. The act of giving gifts to express love, appreciation, and connection is a universal practice that has evolved over centuries. Here’s a brief overview of the history of gift giving within relationships. As societal norms evolved, so did the customs of gift give. In 19th-century America, the Industrial Revolution led to the mass production of goods, making a wider variety of items accessible as gifts. This period also saw the rise of Christmas as a major gift-giving occasion within families. In the 21st century, the tradition of gift giving within relationships has become more diverse and personalized. Technology has introduced new ways of expressing affection, such as sending digital gifts, creating custom photo albums, or planning surprise experiences. Regardless of the era or culture, the underlying theme of gift giving within relationships remains rooted in symbolism and thoughtfulness. Gifts are seen as tangible expressions of emotions, a way to communicate love, appreciation, and understanding. Today, the tradition of gift giving within relationships continues to thrive, adapting to contemporary lifestyles while preserving the timeless sentiment behind the act.

“I don’t think there is an importance to gift giving specifically during Christmas, but it would be nice if they got me a gift.  Regardless, relationships aren’t about gifts; it’s about love,” Maya Melendez, a senior from Plano High School, said.

Christmas shows trust between significant others.

“I think we have been together for so long; he knows what interests me so I’m expecting a good gift and he knows my gift giving standards, I trust him, so I have no worries,” senior Gabriela Vilches said.

For many, gift giving is all about sentimental gifts.

“I would prefer sentimental gifts because they have a way of impacting you that other people wouldn’t understand, that only you and your person would get. It comes from the heart which makes it mean a lot more than something worth so much,” senior Marlen Gutierrez said.

Gifts mean more when its sentimental, but shopping sooner decreases stress for others.

“I started shopping for him around late November, because I somewhat knew what to get him, but I didn’t know how to get it. So, I ordered a plush online and I’ve been going to stores here and there, trying to see if there’s something he likes,” senior Jeanette Villegas said.

There are so many options it’s hard to decide, but for others the gift is the only expectation.

“I’m expecting a gift, but I think a good budget for us is like around $100, it’s what works for us,” senior Victoria Chavez said.