What would you give to those you love… if you could? I’d suggest it’s not about what we can buy.
A year ago I found this poem by Elaine V. Eamons in a child’s picture book. It captured my heart.
So much that I would give you
hovers out of my poor giving.
Song within your heart forever,
faith to end all doubt,
and laughter, warm and gold,
when you begin to grow too serious.
And always near,
the good companionship of trees and birds;
and always, for your beauty-loving ear,
music when you have need of it
and words that pleasure you and rest you, softly spoken.
Unnumbered good days, peace of a starry night,
and love from dawn to dawn that’s an unbroken deep certainty in you…
I have no right to dream of it — but never doubt
I should give you such presents, if I could.
In addition to all those items mentioned in the poem above, I would add:
- deep, rejuvenating sleep every night
- healthy food when you’re hungry
- loyal friends
- hope for the future
- the opportunity to pause and give thanks – ThanksLiving!
Are all these things really out of our ability to give?
Could we influence in some small way?
What would you give if you could?
Leave a comment and add to the list!
Who comes to mind first when you think of giving?
One of the phrases that stopped my reading was, “love from dawn to dawn that’s an unbroken deep certainty in you”. Read more about feeling loved here.
A post I read last week held such beautiful parental love – it caused me to reflect on my relationship with our grown children and the newest adventure of being a grandparent. Do you have the privilege of raising (or being a part of raising) a little one? Take a look at “While you were walking.”
What is positive thanksliving?
I would give love and lightness. The inspiration to play and enjoy life. The giggles, the youthfulness and childlike ways that lift and support. These are tools of my life and I find they are powerful. A beautiful blog and great question to reflect on. Thank you!
To play! That’s something to keep alive. Thanks for stopping in, Lyn!
Such a beautiful poem. It reminds my of the story, “I Wish You Enough” of the elderly man saying goodbye to his daughter at the airport, knowing it is probably the last time he will ever see her. I hope that I have given “enough” to the people I cherish.
Yes, Kandas! I think I remember… Now I need to go look for that story…
What a beautiful poem. I’d add the power to see yourself as I see you and know how wonderful you truly are for so many people I know.
Oh, Janet – that’s a good one! Yes.
I am amazed that the poem appeared in a child’s book!
Thanks for that share.
Excellent post,girl! Beautiful poem to add to it…such a great thing to read at the first hour in the morning.sharing it right away…I wish you have everything you want.Amen
Yes, all the things, and the most important ones would be things money can’t buy. It reminds me of a song called “If I Could,” and it’s so clearly a mother’s love for her child.
What a lovely poem and it’s great that it’s in a children’s book as well. As others have said, the most important tante things in life are truly the things money can’t buy. My contribution to this discussion would be my time, my attention and making sure you know how much you are loved. Thank you for sharing (oh, and the infographic came out beautifully ?).
We can give unconditional love. UNconditional! No rules, no preconceived ideas of what they should be, or can be. Love them despite their past, their behavior, there ‘attitude’, even their lack of reciprocation. Love them where they are….regardless. Love is the most powerful gift we can give!