Gift Giving

Why I liked giving my kids Christmas gifts (or any other gift) when they were little... I remembered being a kid and anticipating the holidays. I couldn't wait to tear through the paper and get to the goodies inside. It was exciting. 

I saw a video of a mom saying, "Gifts?" as she flipped the light switch on, laundry she was folding, pantry full of foods, a flushing toilet, opening a refrigerator that was stocked...each with a Christmas bow on it. No, those are things everybody needs in a functioning household and a privilege. They are not gifts. A gift is a treat...individually tailored kindness. Don't act like parenting and spousing duties are considered a gift. That's an excuse for lazy love. Show you appreciate your child or spouse individually. 

Gifts don't have to be expensive and they don't have to be from a list. You do it because you want to express your love or gratitude in a unique way. 

Quick story most people know, a little drummer boy didn't have a gift for the newborn king. All he had was his music. So he brought his drum and played a song. No list, no Frankincense, no Myrrh, no gold...he brought his presence and a love song.