Is It Wrong To Reclaim A Gift When It's Not Used As Intended

A thoughtful gift becomes a dilemma when intentions are overruled.

Davy

• Published in Interesting
• May 12, 2024

In a heartfelt gesture, a parent decides to gift concert tickets to her daughter's best friend, Morgan, for her birthday, envisioning a delightful experience for the young girl. However, the situation takes an unexpected turn when it is revealed that Morgan's mother plans to use the tickets for another child who has no interest in the band playing.

Feeling that the essence of her gift—a meaningful celebration for Morgan—is being compromised, the generous giver reconsiders her decision. This narrative delves into the complexities of gift-giving, the sensitivity of familial relationships, and the expectations tied to our gestures of kindness.

As boundaries between personal intentions and others' needs blur, the question arises: Is it justifiable to take back a gift if it's not being used as intended?

1. The story.

2. We all had a blast.

3. She could either go with another friend or her mom.

4. He hasn’t and since they can’t afford stuff like this, he gets to go.

5. Morgan is fine with this.

6. So here I am left wondering if I’m being an ass here?

To understand something is not to agree with it. Empathy is not sympathy.

Many 9 year olds have not been to a concert yet. That’s more a young adult thing. Brother might enjoy the ambiance if not the music. However it’s a bad move for mother to make. Ok to op. NTA.

I don't trust her motives. They are utterly illogical. Thats exactly what shes doing but given it will led to her and the lil bro having a bad time, it won't make anyone feel better.

That kid is going to absolutely hate that concert.

The whole bad parenting thing, Morgan's mom arrived at all by herself. Maybe she is more self-aware than we thought.

Literally. I thought it was about the person who received the gift giving it away, then I realized that it was a mum taking her daughter's gift away. How that seems right to anyone is mindblowing.

Stuff like this is no doubt why Morgan prefers to spend time at OP’s house.

How would Morgan's mom like it if her boss at work repurposed her paycheck for some dumb reason? Edit - forgot to put in NTA.

NTA. As much as I understand Morgan’s mom wants to give equal opportunity to her son as the other siblings, it’s Morgan’s birthday gift coming from you and that wasn’t your intention. She should have just accepted it and say ok and figure out a way to take her son to a concert that he’d actually enjoy.

Davy