I have to say, I'm always a little shocked when someone is kind to me.
That sounds weird, I know, but I guess what I mean is that I've always considered myself as someone in the background, unremarkable, easy to walk by without noticing. So, when someone notices or remembers me or what I've done, let alone shows kindness, I'm taken aback.
I suppose that's why it's inherent in me to notice the people no one notices. My heart is one with the child hanging back on the playground where others are clamouring for attention and pushing themselves forward to be first. I know him. I am him.
I don't mean to say that I'm deprived. Certainly not! I grew up in the most wonderful family, immediate as well as extended family. I have been adored by my husband for 39 years. I'm surrounded by love everywhere I turn.
It's also not to say I wish I was the one making the loudest noise and getting the attention. I like working behind the scenes most of the time.
But it is nice to be recognized occasionally, and to have my work recognized too.
That's why when I opened a gift from a friend just before Christmas, I burst into tears. At first, I couldn't figure out where the tears had come from. What on earth ...? It was a simple and beautiful gift. A small sign framed in wood, with one scripted word: begin.
Suddenly I realized why I was crying. It was because someone had read my words. The ones I had written in this post, entitled BEGIN. They had read them. They had taken the time to find suitable materials and commission the word begin to be painted in script. Then, they had beautifully wrapped it and delivered it in person.
What a gift to give to a writer! Not only her own words, but the affirmation that her words had been read and understood.
Truly, a gift of love for this writer.
Joy has spent the last seven weeks tangled in packing boxes as she and The Cowboy anticipate moving to the next phase of their lives in rural Alberta. Find more of her joy-infused view at Scraps of Joy.
That, Joy, is a gift most precious! Lovely post. xo
ReplyDeleteYes, indeed. Thank you Brenda.
DeleteDear Joy, what a lovely gift to have your gift of writing validated and celebrated with love. Thank you for sharing it with us via your beautifully written words.
ReplyDeleteBlessings ~ Wendy Mac
Thank you, Wendy.
DeleteJoy, I feel your joy in this gift. What an intuitive friend, to know the exact gift to validate your lovely way with words. I might have to make my own "begin" sign to put in plain view at my desk. Beginning is often the hardest task for a writer!
ReplyDeleteYes, a beautiful intuitive friend. What a gift it is to be loved.:)
DeleteHi Joy! Guess what? Go ahead, guess. Ok, here is what I'm getting at with my question. You are a gift! I always find your posts are gentle, cause me to ponder, and give thanks to God for who you are. A true gift. Blessings dear friend.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Alan. Your kind words warmed my heart. Bless you.
DeleteWow! That is so lovely! (And the word BEGIN is pretty powerful...)
ReplyDeleteIsn't it though? Thanks Tracy.
DeleteNailed it Joy! I remember you long ago and far away when our children were quite young. Kindness is definitely part of the remembrance.
ReplyDeleteThank you LuLu. How wonderful to be remembered!
DeleteHow wonderful to be affirmed in your writing and other gifts, Joy! Thanks for sharing this story.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sandi.
ReplyDelete