Something better than a gift

Giving gifts is one of the ways we express our love, gratitude, recognition or affection to others. Giving is an expression of love. You can give without loving but you cannot love without giving. Those whose hearts are large, who are intrinsically loving, are generous givers. I have seen people sacrifice very valuable items to give as gifts to those they care about. I salute the selflessness of those who generously give, especially sacrificially. Any time we talk about giving, what comes to mind are those material things – money, flowers, cards, food, and other tangible items. We are so accustomed to material gifts such that the representation of a gift is a wrapped box with a red ribbon around it and knotted at the top.
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Meanwhile, there is a gift that is superior to material things. It is the giving of oneself to another person or to people in the form of our time. When we give our time, we trade our most precious irredeemable item to enrich others. One of the best gifts you can present to anyone is your presence. Being there for others when they need you the most is priceless. The difference that your presence makes when someone else is in a critical situation is to be valued more than material gifts. Yes, you can give materially but also remember to be present.

Are you someone who is always present when you are needed the most? Are you there for your spouse, children, friends, or community? Do those who know you feel your presence? Each one of us must check our modality for giving. There is no material item that can buy your presence. Think about it this way. We all have limited time to be here on earth. We are not here forever. People gave material things before we were here and will continue to do so after us. However, our presence is a unique part of history, and to share it with someone else is to be considered precious. Therefore, always remember to be present for those who need you.

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Actions for the week

1. Consider how busy you are. Do you create time for your family, friends and loved ones? Why or why not?
2. Plan to give both materially and with your presence. Think about those around you. Who needs your presence? Go and spend time with them.
3. Share this message with those in your circle.

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​A quote to remember
“Friends are those rare people who ask how we are and then wait to hear the answer.”
– Ed Cunningham

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Until another time,
Dele Ola, Award-Winning Author of Be A Change Agent
​Click HERE to learn about and get copies of Dele’s Books