You Are a Gift

Recently I was talking with a new friend, and she ended the conversation by telling me -

"It was such a gift to receive you!"

I was so struck by that phrase, and just how she had to see me to be able to express those words. I think it needs fleshing out to get to the root of how beautiful a sentiment this is.

We certainly see infants this way, don't we? "What a blessing!" we exclaim, as we grab their tiny hands and smell their beautiful heads. They don't need to do anything - they come with exactly zero expectations beyond existence. One of my coworkers gave birth recently, and when she brought her newborn daughter into the office we all crowded around, gushing about how adorable she is and taking turns holding her.

So why do I sometimes find my eight year-old son annoying? Why are there people we simply can't stand to be around?

Why do we attach ourselves to our phones when we are surrounded by people whose stories are infinitely more interesting?

Why is "it's too awkward - I don't know what to do or say" the top impediment for those who otherwise want to serve those most in need? Do we not realize that more often than not they simply need someone to be present and allow them to open up and be seen and head?

Do we not realize how much of a gift they are to us, even when we are the ones serving?

Beloved, you are a gift from God. Not, "You have gifts", or "you gave me something". Just - "You are a gift". In your very essence - in who you are, simply for being, you are a gift who it is a joy to receive.

The unborn child? So small and helpless, and yet already a gift.
The immigrant and refugee? Before we ever think to consider them a financial burden or a cultural threat, we must see them as a gift.
Those who are marginalized? Heaven rejoiced when they entered the world. So should you and I.

Young and old, unborn and in skilled care, of every creed, color, and nationality. Believe it or not, even the cynical teenager is a gift.

If nobody has made you feel that important before, I am so, so sorry. That is what you are worth.

The story of your life is beautiful and worth spending hours listening to. It is a great adventure that tells the never-before-heard tale of how you have come to be who you are; your fears and failures; your aspirations, passions, and dreams. Plus, your story is constantly changing - so it can be told again and again.

On the flip side - I hope you recognize the in others as well. If you've never received the gift of getting to spend hours hearing the life story of a complete stranger who has nothing to offer you but their existence, you are missing out.