The Gift

As I sat surveying the paper, boxes, ribbons and bows scatted around the living room floor, I pressed the pause button in my mind.

I figuratively took a screen shot of the scene and let the feeling of happiness burn into my memory. I wanted to keep the sentiment close by and be able to recall it when need be.

Christmas comes but once a year, already making it a special moment because of the rarity. Add in the lights, the parties, the songs, the food, the traditions and the stories – and, for many, this time of the year becomes magical.

I always thought that the most magical Christmas moments were those experienced as a child – the years where the world (or the Christmas celebration) revolves around you. The ones where you wonder, you anticipate, you awe and you believe. The ones where you are carefree: no school, no homework, no obligations, no schedule…

I now think maybe I was wrong.

The gifts under the tree only tell part of the story.

I know I am very privileged. I acknowledge this without hesitation. I know my kids even more privileged. There is no doubt.

The quantity of gifts under the tree this year was somewhat overwhelming. Maybe even disconcerting?

In these dark times, were we adding to the sad state of affairs with so many gifts?  Were we spoiling our (adult) children? Polluting unnecessarily? Contributing to the toxicity of commercial greed?

Deep questions, perforating the festive air.

Wait, upon closer inspection – the lightness and joyous mood did not really come from the actual gifts, it was more deeply rooted.

Each gift represented so much more: careful thought, unconstrained time, deliberate planning and personal sacrifice. From the youngest grandchild to the matriarch – each person gave of themself – and it manifested in the form of handmade cards, thoughtful clothing, elaborate wrappings, dates nights, tools for family meals and personalized signs.

The essence of each gift was an unfettered expression of love.

And bearing witness to this was a true gift.

You are the gift, I am the gift, we are all gifts to one another.

Be kind, give generously, especially of yourself, as always, with #Grit&Grace.