Saturday, December 26, 2009

What Did You Give?

Art by Eloise Wilkin

An African child listened carefully as his teacher explained why Christians give presents to each other on Christmas Day. "The gift is an expression of our joy over the birth of Jesus and our love for each other," she said.

When Christmas day came, the boy brought the teacher a seashell of lustrous beauty. "Where did you ever find such a beautiful shell?" the teacher asked. The child told her that there was only one spot where such extraordinary shells could be found. When he named the place, a certain bay several miles away, the teacher was left speechless. "Why . . . why, it’s gorgeous . . . wonderful, but you shouldn’t have gone to all that trouble to get the gift for me." His eyes brightening, the boy answered, "Long walk part of gift."

When you look at the living room today, and wonder why you worked so many weeks for an event that lasted only one day, remind yourself: "Long walk part of gift."

8 comments:

Annie said...

I love that. Thank you.

Diane said...

I love the day after Christmas almost more than a new year. I feel like it's the day the new season starts - Christmas was the culmination, now a new beginning.

I'm ready to roll!

kenju said...

You teach us the MOST wonderful lessons. I love this! Thanks, and A Happy. Happy New Year to you and Dee.

Kay Dennison said...

Yes, preparation and planning is part of every gift! I don't think we always think about that!

~j. said...

Brilliant. Thank you.

polly said...

what a beautiful simple way to put the lesson of giving. thanks for sharing this.

ELLOUISESTORY said...

Thanks, Marty.

Misty said...

Oh, I just love you!

Thanks!