The unassuming man stood before his peers as he entered the Football Hall of Fame. Ironically this seven time pro-bowler had been overlooked seven times previously for induction to the Hall of Fame because he was “just a kicker.” The coveted gold jacket fit his lanky frame perfectly. I love the comment he made. “The true benefit of a gift is sharing it with others.” He was speaking of his natural ability as a kicker. But I think his wisdom is a “one size fits all” sort of understanding.
We made some gifts last fall which led to a lot of joy. The joy however was mostly in the giving.
You may have noticed paintings resembling quilt patterns on barns throughout the mountains. The original barn quilt was designed by a woman in honor of her mother, a master quilter. From there her idea spread through the countryside of Ohio. See http://barnquiltinfo.com/history for the background. Snail Trails are mapped out in certain states so that visitors can view these lovely designs. All three of our daughters have commented on how much they love the barn quilts.
Wheels started turning. David and I designed a smaller version that would work well on a shed. Each daughter has a favorite color. Hannah is our fall child and loves all things orange. When Amanda bought her first house, she was single and painted several rooms different shades of pink. Stephanie has loved teal/turquoise/funky variations of greenish blue since before the bridesmaid dress fiasco of 1997. A lighter robin’s egg blue is very me. David is the solid black background that holds us all together. The pattern resembles a quilt he bought me one Christmas about a hundred years ago. Yes, we are sappy sentimental like that. Following through on our idea led to a great road trip last fall as we delivered the shed quilts to our daughters from North Carolina to Illinois, then Corpus Christi and back home. The true benefit of a gift really is in the sharing.
I bet you have something worth sharing. Take a little chance. What are you holding back? Why think of yourself as “just a kicker” when the Lord refers to you as His very own Masterpiece! [Ephesians 2:10]. I think the best gifts come from very little, for that’s when we have to get really creative.
As Hall of Famer Ray Guy knows, what you have to offer might just complete the team!
They are truly a work of art and I am sure a labor of love. I recently made a decision to give one of my children something I could have easily held on to. The blessing of giving is much more than the blessing of receiving.thanks for your wonderful blogs…your gift to us is a real blessing.
LikeLike
What an encouragement dear Carolyn. Thank you so much!
LikeLike
you guys are awesome
LikeLike
Not really Kay, but much love back atcha! =)
LikeLike
It is not about the money but the memories you are giving your children. My Mother started quilting late in life and the quilt she made me is one of my favorite all time gifts. I love your idea!
LikeLike
Late in life is where I’m at! =) Thanks for a good reminder Rhonda that even now God has things for us to do! Was just praying about that before I saw your sweet comment!
LikeLike