If It's Monday, It's Mama----Friendships over Gifts

If It’s Monday, It’s Mama- Friendships over Gifts

 

Sweet Daughter,

I have been reflecting a lot on your personal character and you displayed something this weekend which to others may not be a big deal, but to me was huge.  You did two things: 

One, you went to a friend’s baby shower without a gift….gasp!!  Most people today would NEVER go to a baby shower or any kind of shower without a baby gift.  They would be too concerned about etiquette and less concerned about the friendship.  You went.  It made me so proud of you and I know your friend would rather you come empty handed than not at all.  And, look at all the fun you had!  The memories you made and the pictures you took are priceless!!

Two, you told your friend the truth.  You told her that you could not afford a gift for the baby at this time but you wanted to support her by attending her shower with your “person”.  How bold and how honest.

You understand at 22 what I did not learn until 48.  “Appearances” for the world’s sake are meaningless.  The world would tell you to stay home and not go be with your friend giftless.  But, you understood that the gift of your friendship is more meaningful to your friend than any monetary item you could purchase. 

I am so proud of your great heart. 

I am even more proud that you told your friend the truth.  She understood.  And, you promised her a gift when you can afford it which she knows you will deliver to her. 

In fact, you invited me to join you and I will. 

This is character of the finest kind…. 

I have to think this makes God smile…..if you can be honest about the little things and attend your friendships with such great care and compassion, then I can only imagine what wonderful things you will do with the big things.

Having said that, I do love it when we plan in advance and prepare and have things done “on time”….because the little detail of planning is also a way you can show others you care about them.  Saving to buy a gift is a Godly discipline.  In this case, this did not apply because you learned of the shower on short notice, but do keep in mind that managing your finances and your gift opportunities is a good thing to aspire to do.

I am just grateful than when there is not time to plan, you take the road of friendship over the road of propriety….

I think in this you will always be the winner!!

 

ILYAOYMC,

Mama