The Gift of Nothing
As we enter the gift-giving, gift-receiving season, I want to share a gem of a book my sister sent me last year. It’s called The Gift of Nothing by Patrick McDonnell, featuring “the stars of the Mutts comic strip, Mooch the cat and his canine friend, Earl, break out of the Sunday funnies into the picture book world.”
Written for ages 6 – 10, this delightful book reminds all-ages that “nothing can be everything.” To me, this Zen-like message goes deep. It suggests that it is our expectations of gifts and gift-giving that prevents us from enjoying the experience.
Long ago, I learned not to have expectations around gifts. Gifts I just knew the kids would love, they didn’t. Gifts I just knew they would buy for me, they didn’t. Now, for Mother’s Day, my birthday, or Christmas, my only expectation is to not have to lift a finger on that day. No fancy presents, no restaurant meals necessary. I just don’t want to cook, clean, or otherwise engage in my daily routine.
As far as gifts for my children, yes, I know they expect something. I usually buy them a present or two, something they request, but my most precious gift to them is the gift of my time. I tell them, pick a day and we’ll spend it doing what YOU want to do.
Now, they are normal teens, and they consider this the gift of nothing. Yet once we are in the heart of their special day they start asking when can we do this again.
What special gift suggestions do you want to share here? Send an e-mail or comment below. I'm always looking for new ideas ~ something they are not expecting.
Comments
I am definitely looking for this book. It sounds great. thanks for the tip and adding me on NaBloPoMo. I am sure when you added me, but I havent been there for a while, so sorry :) Have a great day-
Posted by: kelly | November 25, 2007 8:36 PM
I love Patrick McDonnell and Mutts. Thanks so much for the recommendation, I'm going to get that book!
Posted by: Mauigirl | November 25, 2007 9:13 PM