I had a gentle reminder last week about the importance of gifts from the heart. First when I witnessed it and second when I saw the photo that captured the simple joy of giving. My grandson, Cristiano, gave his mother some “flowers” for her birthday. 
It was a sweet moment for both of them.
The immense joy on Cristiano’s face tells a story of the joyful act of giving .
After seeing this photo I started to think of gifts I have received that still stay in my heart and bring a smile to my face.
Some of those gifts include:
- time together
- listening
- someone’s undivided attention
- prayer
- a small act of kindness
- a “real” piece of mail
- a smile or helpful hand from a complete stranger while out and about
- a random compliment
- gratitude
- a hug
- a gentle reminder of all my blessings
- laughter
- being there
- shared tears ..joyful and sad
- support
- inspiration
Cristiano gave me a gift as well. I will never look at those “dandy” lion flowers again without smiling.
Forsythia is another flower that brings me joy. Not only is it one of the first signs of spring but it reminds of the a piece of art work my daughter Julie brought me from pre-school. Admiring the brown painted stems with globs of yellow paint at the end I asked Julie..”Wow Julie are these forsythia?” She scrunched up her face and said “No!, they are for you Mommy!”
Yet another gift that brings me a smile…each and every spring.
What do you receive and give on a daily basis, not just to others but to yourself as well?
We know the importance of exercise and good food to nourish our bodies but don’t forget to nourish your spirit as well.
Go pick a few dandelions and put them where you can see them to remind you to give and receive gifts of the heart.
I am going to get mine now…it will do my heart good, yours too!
