Bestowing From Your Bounty
Over two decades ago, someone gave me a painted tile for use in my kitchen. The counter is protected from hot pot bottoms by this trivet. This little tile has survived several moves, been glued back together and lost the loop on its back for hanging, but it remains in a place of honor.
The last two lines of the poem “The Art of Living” are painted on the face of the tile. These words have become even more meaningful with the passing of time as I consider how blessed I am when I can share with others. I remember loathing occasions where I was expected to bring something to share because I always focused on my lack. When I determined to evaluate what I DID have to offer, my attitude changed.
24 HOURS IN A DAY
The gift of time is a most precious thing. Great wealth is not necessary for you to let someone know they are special. For one week of his childhood, one of my sons fell asleep listening to my old sewing machine whirring. By the end of the week, he had his own super hero outfit and cape. This past November, I was cleaning out a closet when I discovered he had saved that old mask and a shirt I had made for him long ago.
ABILITIES
My grandmother set a wonderful example for me by working several weeks each year to produce wonderful crocheted treasures as Christmas gifts for friends and family. She made good use of her time and materials without getting stressed or overwhelmed.
USE YOUR IMAGINATION
Nothing kills my creativity more quickly than forgetting to be thankful. When my attitude is right, I’m then able to consider the possibilities. Used and free items can be given a second life by personalizing them with a coat of paint or other decorative items. A refurbished bicycle or a freshly stenciled chair would be a delight for most children. Once you’ve trained yourself to spot creative opportunities, you’ll just need a little planning. What skills do you have? Could you combine several small items to make one? Do you know of off-season sale items that could be given later? Do you have surplus items that someone else might enjoy? Do you know someone that would love to give their old craft items, sewing supplies or tools a good home?
SHARING YOUR DELIGHT
I made it a priority to involve my children in these projects so that they would also know the joy of giving. While I might be learning a particular craft/skill, my children are helping design labels and packaging and then enjoying the fun of sharing those gifts with those we encounter. Sometimes, we just make things before we’ve decided who the recipient will be. Part of the fun might be trying to guess who will get the homemade cookies we’ve just spent a couple of hours baking.
Part of the fun for our family is being able to surprise others with unexpected gifts; it’s a rewarding experience.
Oh, the poem? Here it is. I don’t know the name of the author.
THE ART OF LIVING
To touch the cup with eager lips and taste, not drain it;
To woo and tempt and count a bliss, and not attain it;
To fondle and caress a joy, yet hold it lightly;
To watch the sunset in the west without regretting;
To hail its advent in the east, the night forgetting;
To smother care in happiness, and grief in laughter;
To hold the present close, not questioning the hereafter;
To have enough to share, to know the joy of giving;
To thrill with all the sweets of life - that’s living.
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