A gift is always a symbolism of love and care, so to accept and love the gift is to reaffirm the bond. That is why it is good manners to always show appreciation whether you like the gift or not. You need to imagine that what is within the wrapping paper is their vulnerable heart.
The mittens in the brown paper had that home-knit look. Sam picked them up and turned them over in his hands, letting his eyes roam freely over every stitch so lovingly made. He raised his eyes to Pamela, who had that look in her eye, caught between pride and fear of rejection, about to say how they were simple to make, or it was really nothing at all. Before she could speak he raised his hand to her face, touching lightly, tilting her head up just a little. "They're amazing, best birthday gift ever."
Your gift is so very important to me because it came from you, because you gave me something that you love and hoped I'd love it too.