“To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice the gift.” – Steve Prefontaine
I have never met anyone who does not appreciate receiving a gift, whether a small token of appreciation or something grand. When we take the time to acknowledge someone for anything, whether small or large it usually speaks volumes to their souls.
I have always tried to teach my children that being thoughtful with what one has will always be greater than trying to buy what one cannot afford. That said, I have taught them to not worry about buying me a gift (when they were younger) for my birthday, but instead make me a card or do something thoughtful (to me) that cost them only their time.
We live in such a fast-paced world where sending flowers or any type of gift is just a click away, and although I appreciate a nice surprise in the mail, nothing will ever replace the intangible gifts that come along with human interaction and connection.
Because we yearn so much for human connection, even receiving the best gift will be meaningless without the essential act of being thoughtful, concerned or showing love, so if and when you deliver that awesome gift to a friend or loved one, make sure a bit of your personal touch is a part of the exchange.
As we grow older, wiser and more settled with our lives, we begin to realize that the most important gifts are the ones that cannot be purchased. The intimate conversations amongst friends and family are surely to be coveted, and often come far and few between, but nonetheless when they come they bring so much of what we long for and need.
I can recall sitting with someone who I hardly knew a couple of years back at a family function. Somehow we sat next to one another and begin to dialogue about life and the people around us. Not only was it easy to share, but we both found ourselves being transparent and honest about very personal issues we were facing in our lives at that time. There was no judgment or angst about diving head first into the various subjects. Just two people sharing a moment in time that proved to be helpful and rewarding for us both.
When I think of someone giving away a gift, it is those types of moments that come to mind. It is those types of moments that bring on life change, impart heartfelt truths and have the potential to leave an imprint on our minds that can carry on for years. I suppose it is the type of gift that keeps on giving, at least for someone like me.
What gifts have you given away lately? The ones you cannot purchase online or in a store. The ones that may require your time, undivided attention and ability to really listen. For some this may not even seem like a gift, but I can say with some certainty that the ones receiving it will, and their lives will be better for it.
I have been blessed to have wonderful friends and family that share the truth, in love. As they do this, they give away something meaningful to me each time. Something that I can hold onto, something that is timeless, and more often than not something that fills a void and answers a deep question within.
These are the types of gifts that my heart longs for, more than anything other kind. They are refreshing, renewing and quenches the thirst of my soul.
For some, the idea of giving gifts this way will draw a blank stare or create confusion, but for those of you that get it, you know what I am talking about. I encourage you to continue giving your best gift away. The world is a better place because of you and life simply is no fun when the givers stop giving.
Of course always do it with wisdom and without obligation, but more importantly do it with and in love. That is your best gift!
Keep Pressing,
Hank G