My Christmas 2000 Gift List

I'm going to say something a little unusual here: I hope you'll hear me out.

A few of you have been asking me for a Christmas list this year, and I've had a really hard time thinking one up.

There's only a few things I really want, and most of them are so mundane that I feel bad even listing them. Who wants, for example, to give me another pair of black socks so I can go longer before doing laundry? Don't all shout out at once.

So after giving it serious consideration, I've decided to put only one thing on my list this year.

If you're thinking about giving me a gift, I'd like you to figure out how much you want to spend on me, multiply it by two, and give that much money to a local charity you care about. Then, send me a card with the name of the charity.

That's all.

I know it's not very consumer-y of me. I'm not trying to take some high moral ground. I just don't need more stuff to fill up our already cluttered apartment. I make a fine salary, and I've bought enough to keep me fed, sheltered and entertained well into 2001.

Don't get me wrong. I still like getting presents, and I still like buying things for others. I'm not going to give you a bag of soy beans or a patchouli-scented head band, and I'm not asking for you to give to any specific organization. I think the gift would be nicer if it was to a local organization, but that's up to you.

If you think this idea sounds right, why don't you forward it on to your friends. Ask them to give to others as a gift for you this year.

Tell them, "This year, I want what Travis wants." I hope you'll pass this along.

If you receive this from a friend, I'd like to hear about it!

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