I did NOT get my favorite chocolates for Valentine’s Day today. I DID get a very lovely basket filled with fudge, several heart shaped chocolates on a stick, a pack of Almond Roca, chocolate covered biscuits, white chocolate bakery cookies, shell shaped chocolates and several chocolate truffles. I was also given a sweet, purple t-shirt from my favorite store. All of this kindness and love completely wiped out my attitude about wanting only my favorite chocolate.
I’ve had discussions with my girlfriends about what makes a great gift. Is it when you get something that means a lot to you or when you get something that means a lot to the giver? I admit that there have been times when I’ve been given great gifts that were not what I wanted and have felt offended that the giver just did not ‘get’ me. But, I graciously fawned over the gift while secretly being p o’d inside. There have also been times when I have gotten something I never asked for but was totally thrilled by the idea and grateful for the thought.
I realize today that the sincerity in which the gift is given is the key to giving and receiving a great gift. Sometimes you can tell when a gift has been given some thought or not. Or if you were even on the person’s mind when they bought it! I confess that I have given gifts because I was expected to – just for the sake of gift giving. I know it doesn’t feel good.
Valentine’s is a tricky day. Expectations are high. Buying begrudgingly may be the case for a lot of people today – I feel for them. I am very happy today to receive the generous expression of love and appreciation that I was blessed to get today. I could totally feel the love. (and I could totally buy my favorite chocolates on sale tomorrow, but I won’t be needing them. My chocolate cup runneth over.)
Day 15: Comment on someone’s blog or Facebook page (everyone loves comments).