The Best Part About a Gift is the Delivery

To me, the best part about a gift is the delivery... was it delivered with a warm smile... with a heart full of love?  When you received it was there the understanding that you were loved & accepted just as you are?  Did receiving it inspire you to become a "better you"?

I had a dear friend several years ago (we'll call her Miss Debbie) who shared a wonderful "tradition" with me.  She called it a "Happy".  What exactly is a "Happy"?  It's a gift which doesn't have to be for a certain reason or for a specific occassion.  It's something that will bring a smile to the recipient - maybe something they mentioned or admired while you were being observant. A "Happy" can also be a handwritten note with a meaningful picture tucked inside. 

Remembering & documenting fun times with friends & loved ones are a great ways to celebrate the good moments of life.  Remembering those good times can help us in the tough times too.  It's just like the words written in Psalm 77:11&12: “I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about them.”  The New Living Translation Bible Application Notes read: Memories of God’s miracles and faithfulness sustained Israel through their difficulties. They knew that God was capable and trustworthy. When you meet new trials, review how good God has been to you, and this will strengthen your faith.

One of my favorite "gifts"

Especially at this time of year I'm reminded that the "delivery of our gift of Jesus Christ" from the Creator of the Universe (all those years ago) was a wonderful "Happy"!  In the form of a tiny baby, came the hope of all eternity.  The gift of Jesus was free & given with no expectation in return. 

I love giving "Happy's"... and I love receiving them, as well. I love the fact that the cost of the gift has nothing to do with it's value. I love that they are often non-traditional & quirky. I'm pretty much non-traditional & quirky.  I love that there's no stress to finding a "pricey" gift.  By being observant, we can often find a meaningful gift.  The value of a gift is in the delivery - if you ask me! 

Hope you have a HAPPY Christmas this year. 

(shared this post with the Ann Voskamp One Thousand Gifts community)

(written 12/22/11)