The Gifts We Give

Based on Something From My Archives, 2008

One of my favourite ways of expressing love to the people in my circle is to give gifts to them. I love finding treasures big and little that I fondly hope will bring them pleasure as well as convey my esteem and affection.

I love shopping for presents at Christmas time, but I have to admit my most favourite times of the year to give gifts are those times in between the special events ... when no one is expecting them.

Sometimes it's easy to get caught up in the social obligation of gift giving at this time of year. Instead of feeling a sense of joy and wonder, we can feel the pressure of giving because it's expected. I don't know about you, but I don't want to receive anything from anyone if she only feels a sense of duty to give it to me.

I don't want to give in that spirit either!

And, for those times when our hearts long to give something special, but our pocketbooks preclude that, let's not worry about that either. Don't stress it ... be honest if that's the case, why should that embarrass us or make us feel we cannot participate in this season of good will even if we cannot give in the usual fashion.

Perhaps it's the year to share something without monetary involvement. After reading Gary Chapman's book many years ago on the 5 love languages, I realized that gift giving is one of my main love languages.  But gift aren't the only way -- other expressions include words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, and acts of service.

For me, I want my gifts to be an expression from my heart. Whether or not it is delivered wrapped in shiny paper or if they are presented as gentle words, timely acts of service, time spent with someone over coffee -- it doesn't matter if we're two or ninety-two, we are all looking for that little something that says...

As we prepare ourselves for this special holiday season, may the gifts we choose be ones that come from hearts filled with affection.

Happy Preparations...
Brenda
xox