Today was a very busy day. I went up to see my grandfather who has just been released from the hospital and tons of family was gathered around to celebrate his return home. While we are unsure of how much time we have left, the blessing of his continued presence is something to be grateful for. Because we were all getting together I thought I would take some snacks with me for everyone to enjoy this afternoon. I packed up some toasted pumpkin seeds (slow roasted all morning with a delightful garlic/onion crusty topping), chocolate covered almonds, some rice snacks and a pan of good old fashioned rice krispie squares. Then I loaded my son in the car, got my parents in too and we hit the road.
When we got there no one wanted what I brought (except my Dad who is delightful!). Everyone immediately dove into the pan of brownies that my Aunt had made, ripped open jars of pringles and sat down with handfuls of left over halloween candy. Nothing I made was required. The gift I had to offer wasn’t really needed. And somehow, it didn’t bother me in the least. I was there to spend time with family. I was there to celebrate my Grandfather’s presence. My gift may not have been needed but I was, and that’s important to remember. We gathered together as a family and had a wonderful day. God blessed us with each other.
As I move through this month I hope to be able to give in ways that impact people’s lives. Today I have discovered that sometimes it’s not what you give, it’s that you tried. While things didn’t go the way that I planned, we still encountered God as we gathered together and that’s the most important thing.
P.S. – Thanks Dad for always loving my effort. No matter what you’re always willing to try anything I make and will love it regardless. You may be the only one who ate my pumpkin seeds but I appreciate your love and am so grateful to have a wonderful father.
