I sure do hear you. I too am in that situation as you are. This issue of expensive gifts to your family should not happen. It isn't about gifts, or the expence of am item. They are making you feel worse than you already do, because you cannot afford the gifts. I can't eithor, but in my case the good souls I have in my life, just want me to be there, and don't care at all about the gift. The gift is getting together with each other. Your culture sounds like it is putting alot of pressure on you to do something you can't do. I am sorry you are going through this. I am poverty stricken too. My government took every dime I had from two generations, before I received any kind of help. I was forced to poverty after working 30 years. I am dealing with it, as I have friends who really do understand my family and finacial problems.
As for our teeth, we suffer. I feel lousy when I feel the big empty space in my mouth because I could not afford the dental care I needed. My first cervial fusion took priority, as did the second and 6 other surgeries. I know things are tuff for you too Kitty. Keep in touch with me. I am here to listen to you too. Maybe you should just tell those people who expect a big gift to back off, that their hearts are not in the right place. RSD is horrible to live with and they should show you compassion. ginnie