It’s been a while. 1999 was when we first met. And I’m not sure any of his friends would have predicted it, but one of the things I love about my husband is how he loves to be loved. He’ll hold my hand. He’ll accept my enthusiasms. He is not as expressive as I am; however, he lets me give him my heart.

Not everyone lets you do that. There are people who are hard to give to. It doesn’t feel nice to give to someone who instantly pushes back with rejection.

I remember once, a family had suffered a tragedy and I was sorrowing for them and for me. I had a desire to buy gifts for the children, and I was paralyzed with indecision.

Was that the right thing to do?

Would they think I was weird to give a trinket at this time?

I mustered up my courage, after months, and did finally give the gifts. I never forgot how hard it was to take that step.

The art of receiving can be neglected. And yet, there is very little in life more enjoyable than finding the exact perfect gift for a loved one, and presenting it.

It is one of the graces of the Christmas season. Giving…Giving thought to the gift and then presenting. It’s a gift we give to each other, the opportunity for attentiveness and delight in all directions.