Occasionally things happen in life that are so unexpected, so unsought, that when these events occur the surprise is overwhelming. Today was such a day. I arrived home from my second dental appointment in so many days and found the mail had already been brought in. Krista had come and gone. The mail rested on a box addressed to me.
OK, it's post Christmas; I don't swap hardly at all; and I had not ordered anything. The return city was Aurora, OR but the box came without a name or address. The gift inside was meant to be anonymous so I can only express here how incredibly happy and humbled I am to receive the beautiful manger that is pictured here and the heartfelt note that is signed "A Friend". I can't begin to express how deeply moved I am to receive this gift.
In past blogs I have written: " I was amazed by the wealth of friendship out there and discovered that friendship itself had been redefined". . . and . . . "We all send out ripples and for the most part we have absolutely no idea how our thoughts, words, or actions may effect someone in some future. It's almost a mystical experience to acknowledge that a word or action now could have consequences years from now." But to receive such tangible evidence that I have caused someone, though heavy-hearted, to smile, someone I don't even "know" in the traditional sense, almost moves me to tears.
So, dear FRIEND out there, I want you to know that this manger is more than a manger. It is a representation of Christ's message of Love and I intend to keep it up year 'round. I wish you endless blessings and lightness of heart in 2007 and beyond.
18 comments:
What a wonderful gift! I can't tell even by clicking on the picture to see it bigger; what is is made out of...ceramic?
Brings tears to my eyes to see such goodness. Thanks for sharing it here.
Star, the little pieces are ceramic. This picture actually does not do quite the justice to the little pieces. The glaze is a beautiful creamy white with gold trim that has a lovely glow.
Oh, that is such a wonderful surprise! The blog world is just an amazing place, isn't it?
There are times of pure joy and sweetness in life that are indescribable. Thank you for sharing this, Anne, because as I read this, I, too, feel, like a recipient. No matter the hard times, life is good. Thanks.
What an amazing gift! Receiving a package that you already know is coming is such a great feeling, I can only imagine what it must be like to get an anonymous gift. I love this story!
All the best to you in 2007.
What a sweet thoughtful friend!
Annie,
What a wonderful surprise you must have had. I've also been privileged to open my (snail) mailbox and find little surprises from fellow bloggers.
It certainly brightens one's day!
:)
Proud to be called your
"friend"
I think the "star" is above your home. The angel is singing, and the three kings came and beared you a gift!
Angel Annie you deserve such a sweet act of kindness!!
Thank you for being you!!
what a sweet story...I too have received surprises from fellow bloggers... and inevitably they arrive... just when I need an uplift. .... sounds like it was the same for you !
Isn't it great to have caring friends all over the world, sharing their spirit just when you need it?
A lovely gift, for a lovely person:)
This certainly is a *wonderful surprise* and what a gift you gave when you inspired some person touched.. their heart enough that they felt they had to give back.This blog community is incredible I have found kindred spirits and friends that I never imagined when I began this journey called ~blogging.~
Enjoy your gift from an appreciative
heart I am sure. :)NG
That is what Christmas is all about.
Hi Annie ~ First and foremost, I would like to pass on my sincere condolences on the passing of your Mom...I am so sorry for your loss. I wish for you a happy, healthy and very fulfilling 2007! May it be all you wish it to be :)
Thanks so much for your visits and comments over at mine...I'm glad your visits warm you.
This is nice to start the day with. Heck, it's nice to start the year with.
Annieelf, I'm sure you deserve the thought from "a friend," and from many others.
what a wonderful surprise. A fascinating 'who-done-it'
A who-done-it, indeed, Asc. Believed me, I pursued what few clues I had and came up blank. I don't mind though, the anonymity of this gift makes it all the more a treasure and will make a great family story.
Kali, thank you for your condolences. It's getting a little better now but I expect there will be many "moments" for a while yet.
Naturegirl - I am a different person because of my blog and the connections I have made with others. I love it here and will probably be doing it into my dotage.
Ret - Thank you for your many visits. I'm always especially happy to see you here. Everyone, be sure to click on Rethabile and enjoy his beautiful poetry and insights.
Lone Beader, Becca, Diane, Corey, Janet, Star, Cityfarmer, Susie, Biene, Tara, and Ali - - I hope that my anonymous friend sees your notes and realizes that she has not only given me happiness but also many others.
Well said.
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