Gifting – A love note to an awesome individual

 If you read my birthday post, you know I’ve been thinking about memorable things I’ve done for others, and yes, it is not self-serving or narcissistic; I’m looking at it from the viewpoint of having received more than enough so I can give to others. And sometimes it feels good to leave the bubble of humility —faux or intentional – and accept that you have been a blessing to many. It’s motivating and brings illumination to what’s important for you – for me, it's more than that; it brings meaning to my purpose.

Today, I woke up thinking about gifting – in light of what I’ve received, not what I’ve given. Am I expressing contradictory ideas? No… it’s the egg, chick, egg cycle. I have been thinking about gifts I’ve received from one individual – a beautiful soul who I absolutely love. However, before I return to discussing this specific angle, let me first talk about gifting in general.

Gifting is a gesture of kindness, sometimes to join souls and spirits in celebrating an event, honour a relationship, express emotion, meet a need… but, more importantly, to create lasting memories. We gift without expecting something in return, but gifting follows the law of reciprocity – not necessarily between the individuals involved or in the same physical measure. When you give a gift with pure intentions, you may not realise it at the time, but that kindness always comes back to you.

There are a few considerations that come to mind when thinking about what to give someone – the 'why' of it all, what the person likes, what the person needs/wants, affordability and accessibility, etc. Above all, people always say, ‘It’s the thought that matters.' True, and… nothing beats the warm glow on the receiver’s face.

Admittedly, I’m one of those ones that people find difficult to give gifts to. And to be honest, I would find it difficult to gift someone with my personality trait. However, this person has successfully broken through the barriers I have erected around my life events and has over the years bestowed upon me the most unforgettable gifts. Her gifts are very practical yet could be placed in the museum of my heart. She has a way of selecting the most thoughtful items for me – not what I need or want, but what I would like to keep and cherish. I want her to acknowledge the gift of picking the most perfect gifts every time.

Note: all those pictures were taken today – of some of the gifts she's given me over the years.