The Gift of your presence

With all the hustle and bustle of finding the perfect present for someone you love, here's a powerful idea . . . how about offering them your presence? When you consider the time it takes to find the right gift, pay for it, wrap it, and deliver it to the person, that time may more appreciated if you simply arrange to show up and spend time with them. It really doesn't matter if you're going to a movie, watching one at home, playing a game, having tea, cooking a meal together or going out to eat. My experience is we all need and desire more time with those we love. The Gift of a good conversation, reflection of silly shenanigans you've pulled off together that your parents would have killed you for if they would have known, awkward and embarrassing moments that became secrets only the two or three of you shared together all add to a fun afternoon or evening setting across the table from each other. Which is interesting in and of itself, ever notice how seldom we really look each other in the eyes and simply chat? Not about someone else, rather, about each others lives; the fears, joys and dreams for our lives. Presents come and go with the fads, fashions and latest technologies; however, the presence of someone we love far exceeds any present that may be purchased. So, for you last minute shoppers, send a text, an invitation, leave a voice mail or tie a note to a homing pigeon. However you choose to communicate with your family and/or friends, put down you credit card, pick up your keys and go "over the river and through the woods," to visit someone you love. I promise all parties will remember the Christmas the best gift they received was the Gift of your presence!