The Real Gift

What’s In A Gift?

When I open a gift, I’m always grateful to receive it. Whatever it is.

Truly, what’s in the package doesn’t matter.

The present can be something I want and can use, or a gift that isn’t my style and I can’t really use.

Why Do I Love Every Gift?

Why would I appreciate something that isn’t “me”?

Because the real gift isn’t the tangible object.

When I open a gift, I see the:

— Hard work my friend did to make the money.

— Sacrifice in the decision to spend some of their hard-earned money on me.

— Effort and thought they give to buy something I will love.

— Joy of my friend as they anticipate giving me the gift and seeing my happiness at receiving it.

— Value my friend places on our relationship.

I accept every gift with gratitude.

I devise a use for it. Or I find a place of honor to display it.

The Real Gift

Because whether or not I like the present, what’s in the package isn’t the real gift.

When I look at the gift, I see the face of my friend and the love they have for me.

And that is priceless.

What do you see when you receive a present?

The Real Gift – What do you see when you receive a present? Share on X

Joni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.


May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.

4 thoughts on “The Real Gift

  1. Great post and reminder, Joni. I agree on many of your thoughts. It’s always the giving and not the gift.

  2. I love what YOU see when you receive a present. I actually want to train myself to see the same things you said you see… because that is a great way to receive a gift:)

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