It is my bestest friend's birthday today. Now, in this time of recession the question is not "what to get for someone who has everything" but "what can I afford?" Go down the checklist: at first the choices seem few. Look again. Think about what your friend really needs - need, not want.
Most of us mostly just need to feel good. And while some may need something of material value to make them feel good, many of us need something of emotional value to make us feel good. Like a good well-wishing, a happy tiding, or a compliment.
While I was busy going through my "check-list of valuable gifts" she walked through the door. "Wow, you look fantastic today!" I offered sincerely. "Thanks," she said, "you just made my day."