The Soap Saga of ‘75

It’s 1975 in Brooklyn, and Christmas at Gina’s house comes with mismatched coats, a neighborhood line of credit, and the annual Soap Distribution Ceremony—where Avon soaps wrapped in love (and financial panic) get delivered to every shopkeeper who kept their tab open. With two hilarious brothers in tow, Gina narrates a walk through working-class gratitude, sharp sibling jabs, and one perfectly timed hug that changed her view on gifts forever. This story is a funny, tender reminder that generosity isn’t about the price tag—it’s about the courage to say thank you when you’ve had to ask for help.