My mother was a generous gift-giver. Not only did she give in abundance, she always looked to give something special and personal to the recipient. I’d like to think I got my social grace from her, though I may never attain her thoughtful generosity to the fullest.
Nowadays, in all our practicality, we’ve lost the art of gift-giving. Determined to exchange something perfect and useful, we make wish lists and discuss ideas until the gift is no longer a gift but rather a wish granted. Don’t get me wrong, I love to receive something for which I have been longing, but I personally love even more to receive a gift that is a true surprise, a reflection of the gift-giver and their relationship with me, the receiver.
My mother taught me, by example, how to give gifts but she also taught me how to receive them. You could give my mother anything. . .truly anything. . .and she would be blessed, finding a way to use that random trinket or less than beautiful sweater. If she didn’t care for it, you would never know. Because the grace with which we accept a gift is just as important as that with which we give one.
I know I don’t need to remind you that all gifts given this time of year are given because of the greatest Gift and thus should be nothing less than thoughtful and personal. And all gifts received are received because of this Gift and should, without question, be accepted with grace.
I’m wrapping presents tonight and with the fold of each corner and the press of each slice of tape, I am thinking of the one to whom I will be giving the thing. . .the thing I thought long and hard about, perhaps searched for. I’m hoping they love receiving it just as much as I love giving it. I hope they know it’s wrapped in love and care and celebration of their uniqueness.
And I’m thinking about the Gift. He hopes we love receiving His Gift just as much as He loves giving it. He hopes we know His Gift is wrapped in love and care and celebration of our uniqueness.
One must know not just how to accept a gift, but with what grace to share it. Maya Angelou
Whatever you find underneath your tree next week, accept the Gift and with grace, share it. Know that you are known and loved by the Giver. Thank Him for His Gift, the Gift by which we have the capacity to give all gifts.
No matter what you find underneath your tree next week, accept the gift by grace and with gratitude.
What is your favorite part of gift giving?
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