Lee Gainer - The Thought that Counts

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© 2007-2008 Lee Gainer
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Statement“The Thought that Counts” takes a broad look at the nature of gift giving.

I developed this body of work after flipping through the dozens of gift catalogs I’ve collected over the past few years. I keep them because they are full of enticing, beautifully photographed items. Often these items are not terribly unusual and contain thousands of calories. The catalogs are fun to peruse for their visual value and for their psychological aspects. You can practically see Mrs. Fields teasing you with that Supreme Brownie Lovers Basket (only $39.95, plus shipping).

Today’s gift industry is a multi-billion dollar machine dependant on our somewhat guilt driven spending. We’ve all seen the news reports of seasonal retailer’s expectations and results. If we don’t buy these things, people lose their jobs. If you don’t give gifts, your friends will think you don’t like them. You’ll disappoint your family. We feel constant pressure, from all forms of media advertising, to let our family and friends know that they are special and loved. Go ahead; send them the Funny Bunny Easter Treats Deluxe Tower for only $59.95 plus shipping instead of a card. It’s the right thing to do isn’t it? If we don’t give expensive gifts, are we bad people? If you don’t “support your national economy”, are you unpatriotic?

Isn’t it the thought that counts?

Somedays even my lucky rocketship underpants don't help.