Precious gifts

When on vacation, I adhere to the same general routines that I employ in my ‘regular’ daily life.  I wake at the same early hour, complete morning yoga and meditation, continue to eat healthfully, engage in daily physical exercise, etc.

Presently, I’m on vacation, staying with my parents in the southern U.S.  This morning as I laced up my shoes and prepared to head out for an early walk, my dad looked at me and said, “I’ll join you.”  He and I spent the next 30 minutes strolling side by side, discussing a variety of topics that came to each of our minds, enjoying one another’s company.  It was lovely.

While Dad and I were on our walk, my mom was back at the house, cooking various dishes that we would all eat later as part of the big Christmas meal.  As 1 pm approached and Mom began arranging many platters and serving trays, she showed me different items she had made and set aside specifically for me: the green beans that were sautéed with onions only (no bacon), the stuffing that was oyster-free, the many casseroles that were veggie-focused…Her consideration and respect of my chosen dietary path was very sweet.

After the meal (and gift exchange), my sister offered several different activities that we could all do tomorrow.  Every time I visit, my sister has a new list of events/attractions/entertainment options at the ready; she does her very best to help ensure that my trips are exciting and active.  Her thoughtfulness and earnest desires to see that everyone is engaged and happy is truly touching.

I’m fortunate in that I received several new, very nice material possessions today.  However, I’m blessed in that my family shared meaningful acts of care with me – and that they do this not because of a special holiday, but because they love me.  They freely share their gifts of time, attention, effort, and interest with me (today, certainly; but throughout the rest of the year, too) – and in my opinion, these are the best gifts of all.

Stef