One of the key ideas presented in the story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry us the importance of sacrifice.
In this story, we encounter a young couple, Jim and Della, who are very short on money. However, the two love each other deeply, and want to give each other nice presents for Christmas. Without the means to buy these presents, each one of them has to sacrifice what they love most. Della sells her hair, while Jim sells his watch. However, when the two exchange the presents, they realize that Della's present was a chain for Jim's watch, while Jim's present was a set of combs for Della's hair.
The story shows that the real meaning of the gift is the sacrifice and thought that you put into it. A gift that is given with care and love is a good gift, regardless of its content.
