"The best gifts come from the heart, not the store."
As the Christmas count down is nearing, I've been thinking about a different kind of giving. We all have those list of names or name draws that we usually make purchases for, and sometimes these list are like Christmas traditions....(It's what we've always done)
My thoughts have leaned towards the kind of giving that comes from noticing people who have crossed my path this past year. The ones who may never expect a gift and who might even be very surprised by receiving a small (Just Because) gift.
Over this past year, there have been a few people who have touched my life in a quiet, but very meaningful way. They have been my encouragement and they have helped me, without any kind of fanfare at all. Most of them probably do not realize the impact of their kindness towards me and my family.
My heart wants to say "Thank you" in a tangible way...I want them to know that ....I NOTICED!!
The kind of giving I am talking about today, doesn't come with expectations, just perhaps a small gesture of saying, "I see you and I see your kindness." A candle, a handwritten note, baked cookies or maybe even an unexpected hug....
Nothing extravagant, just something wrapped in gratitude.
I think it is a joy to be able to share from a place of thankfulness and I love how the Lord has nudged me to say...."This one matters"
This is really what the season is all about...remembering the people who crossed our path this past year, the ones who have made my life a little brighter..
EACH OF YOU, MY DEAR BLOGGING FRIENDS, HAVE TOUCHED MY HEART IN WAYS YOU WILL NEVER KNOW..
I SEND YOU HUGS AND MY LOVE, AS WELL AS MY BIG THANK YOU FOR BEING HERE FOR ME.
Through words, prayers, shared moments and faithful presence, you have reminded me that connection isn't measured by distance but by love. I am grateful for each of you...
for your kindness, your encouragement, and the light you bring into my days. This season, and always, thank you for being part of my journey...
Shug...💛
Those are the most touching gifts to receive and the most fun ones to give.
ReplyDeleteI'm thankful for the gift of you as well!
Yes they are Mari. I feel like my whole world has opened up with all of the wonderful friends I have in the blogging world.
DeletePrayers, (secret ones), are the best gifts we can receive and give each other. I offer you my prayers.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
You are so right Victor and my heart sings in knowing I have prayer warriors surrounding me...Thank you!!
DeleteHello Shug....I am grateful for YOU, too! Your header today is GORGEOUS. Do you do your own headers? Oh gosh. All of them are so beautiful. I am sorry your sweetheart is going through hard times but he has you by his side which makes all the difference in the world, Shug. Yes! Do the gingerbread decorating for Christmas Eve. The kids LOVE it. I make my own gingerbread houses which are a lot of work but worth every second of time spent. Take care, dear Shug. Have a blessed rest of the week. Susan
ReplyDeleteThank you Susan. Yes, I so enjoy making my banners. so fun and very relaxing for me. I think my kids would really have fun with the gingerbread houses...You have inspired me.
DeleteThoughtful, lovely post, Shug. I shall be thinking of you and Sam as you travel your trying road.
ReplyDeleteYou are so kind and we so appreciate all of your prayers.
DeletePlease know, Shug, that you have blessed my days with your sweet demeanor and genuine care for others that you show us here day in and day out. You are a gift to me and I'll continue to pray for you and Sam. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteI guess we all feel the same way. We have such a group of loving bloggers, and they have been in our lives for so many years - they are our extended family. I am very thankful for you too.
ReplyDeleteSam's treatments seem to be picking up right at Christmas. I hope his pneumonia is gone too.
Prayers.
Love, sandie
Well said! Love, hugs, and prayers always. ❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕
ReplyDeleteWishing you Peace and Joy this Christmas. You and your blog are a gift!
ReplyDeleteAwww, well, you know how much I love you, Shug! I was so happy back when you started posting more!! And this post is wonderful and something we should all think about, the people who have helped us in some way, without us even asking. You actually wrapped these gifts? Oh MY, they are so gorgeous and professional. You are the wrapping queen!! Not to be confused with the rapping queen!
ReplyDeleteP.S. Please let us know the outcome of Sam's appointment.
ReplyDeletePrayers always for Sam and all of his appointments. Prayers for healing and Prayers for you, precious Friend. I sure wish we lived closer ...
ReplyDeleteYour way of sharing your heart is so touching and meaningful. Thank you for putting into words what I feel too.
(((hugs)))
Sue
Thank you for the gift of your lovely uplifting words.
ReplyDeleteaahh, these are such dear words, Shug. Loved everything about this post - the wrapped presents, the acknowledgement of those special people in our lives who really do make a difference, and your special words. Your wrapped gifts made me smile because Nel puts handmade bows on all of her presents, and it's so pretty, and mine are gift wrapped with maybe a bow or ribbon with a big black initial on the back. Not fancy at all haha. That gold present is lovely, and I like the music notes wrapping too.
ReplyDelete~Sheri
*Saying a prayer for Sam's pneumonia to be cleared. Take care, dear Shug. You and Sam have been going through so much.
DeleteWhat pretty packages you've created! I so like the idea of "just because" presents for those who touch our hearts. You've been such a blessing in my own life this last year ... your words like balm.
ReplyDeleteI pray today's doctor's appointment contained news you're hoping to hear.
This is so true. You said it so well too. I'm so happy that I have found your blog. You are one the most delightful people I know.
ReplyDelete