The Gift of Presence

Today I want to encourage you to give the gift of your presence to someone in your life. 

As we celebrate Christmas and worry if we have purchased the right gift and made enough food; there is someone that would benefit from a quick phone call or enjoy spending just a few minutes sitting with you on the couch.

This is my second Christmas season of not having my biological family to celebrate with. I miss being with my Mom and Nanny on Christmas Eve where we would watch some of our favorite Holiday movies. I miss assisting Nanny as she made homemade dressing and macaroni and cheese.  However, I can smile at the memories that I have. Over the years I can say that I did give the gift of presence to my family and they to me.

I’ve often been asked what is the best thing than can be done for someone who is grieving or hurting. Typically, there are very few words that ease pain but what I have found is being present is often the most therapeutic gift that can be given.

Don’t forget the loved ones and friends in your life who are hurting or struggling in some way or the other.

If you are fortunate enough to be in a family with multiple generations, take time to spend with the elders in the family. Equally take time to spend with the youngest in the family. View the season from both sets of eyes as there is value in both.

As we approach the end of the year, I am thankful for the presence of many friends who continue to walk along this crazy journey of life that I am on.

• I think of the night two coworkers came to my house after my Mom’s death, with food, wine and their presence.
• The presence of my friend who held me accountable for regular workouts and listened to my vents and frustrations of life.
• The availability of a friend via phone that took the place of those phone calls I used to make to my Mom on my way home.
• Of course, the continuing presence of my husband, who has held me up during times when I didn’t think I could make it.

Tonight, we celebrate the ultimate presence of our Savior. Over the past two years, I have felt his presence in the peace I felt at my Mother’s bedside as she died and in various moments of everyday life. I am so grateful for the gift of his love and ever present presence in my life.  We have all been given the ultimate gift of presence!

Merry Christmas! 

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