Time and love are most valuable gifts to many
Dear Readers: At this time of year we begin to think about the perfect gift. That gift that will exquisitely express our appreciation and our admiration for the receiver. Those gifts that will show just how thankful we are for the special people in our lives.
In my journey through life I have found there are two perfect gifts to be given: the gift of our time and the gift of our love.
Our time is precious, and that is why it is such a valuable gift. We must share it as often as we can. We should first recognize the importance of sharing special time with those closest to us. Deliberately setting aside time to spend in a special way with those living under our own roofs may be the best thing we can offer them. Even making an effort to be more fully present during those everyday times together is a gift through which both the giver and receiver feel the benefits.
Time for those outside our closest circle also makes an impact. Making the effort to enjoy the company of a friend for the simple accomplishment of spending time together is a beautiful gift. Taking time to organize a gathering for friends or time to be a happy attendee at a party are other ways of gifting our time with others that build relationships and strengthen important bonds.
And the perfect gift of time is never limited to those you know best. As we call to mind the simple things we are truly thankful for, like shelter and food, we easily find opportunities to share with those in need.
When we spend time reaching out to others, the intangible rewards of providing for tangible needs can bring a fresh perspective. You might even use your Thanksgiving gettogether to plan a family service project you can take on together during the holidays to benefit a charity or a family in need. You’ll grow closer together through sharing your time and spreading your blessings.
Our love is also a precious gift. Sharing our love lets people know that they are important to us and inspires confidence in that love. We should tell them that we love them and make every effort to give them the attention they desire and deserve as our loved ones. Express your love as a gift and it may take on new meaning for you.
I hope you’ll let these perfect gifts guide you as you celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas. Encourage those you see who do give these gifts and let them know you appreciate their efforts.
When your sister-inlaw volunteers to take on the family Christmas celebration, thank her profusely and then do everything you can to make it easier on her. When the stressed-out party host sighs that she doesn’t know how she got herself into this mess, remind her that sharing her time creating an event where people can build relationships is a beautiful thing to do.
Open your heart this holiday season to also receive these perfect gifts. Look for the elements of love and time in all the gifts you receive. Recognize when these gifts are offered to you and rejoice in receiving them. Marvel at their perfection whether they are tied up with a sparkly bow or handed over humbly. These are the gifts that matter and that make a difference in people’s lives and in the world.
Perfect gifts and good manners never go out of style.