Sharon is 31 and has just had her first baby, a little girl called Jessica.  Jessica is now 3 months old and has been showered with gifts from all Sharon’s friends and relatives, not to mention her parent’s friends and even her husband’s work colleagues. 

Sharon really appreciates all the attention, but she’s wondering what to do with all the presents.  Jessica already has more teddy’s than she could ever need, and more baby clothes than she can wear.

Her dilemma is this:  instead of using all the clothes and toys once or twice, would it be better to keep the labels on some of them and give them away new, either to friends or to charities?  Or is it better to use them, and then pass them on when they’re no longer needed?   It seems like a waste for one child to have so much, but then, you don’t want to offend the gift giver who may have put a lot of thought and love into choosing that gift.  What would you do?

• Is it OK to give away a gift that someone has given you?
• Do you think it’s better to give the goods to charity while they’re still in new condition rather than waiting until they’re worn out?
• How would you feel if you were one of Sharon’s friends and you found out your present for Jessica ended up at The Smith Family or Vinnies?