I used t get really excited when it was my birthday as a child. I got excited to consider what would I get.
One year I got a remote-controlled car. I was delighted with it. It was just what I wanted and I was keen to make the most of it. Sure I was thankful to my parents for getting it for me, but I was more keen on playing with that toy. Yeah, I had the car and would do all the noises of it as it whizzed around. What a gift.
Years later and my wife wasn’t feeling too well. She is one of those who doesn’t like to be unwell and she battles everything to remain as active as possible. When she’s not feeling well, the whole family feels it. Something that she’s taught me, though, is that the real present to give in life is presence. Being there. Being present. Not just being available for affection of regular supply of hot beverage. Not just being handy to sort out domestic issues. Not just being present. Present for conversation. Present for encouragement. Present for humour. Present for reflection.
The toy was fun for a season and I remember it well. But the ability to be the present through my presence is of far greater value.
Then, I was challenged to consider what if there was more to my presence that would be a gift to others and that led to a thought about what it is to be gifted to be a gift …
(To be continued)
(Photo by Jess Bailey on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 