This is the time of year when we hear (even if we occasionally don't want to) never-ending Christmas songs. I like the religious and the secular ones, but I never fail to have a small lump in my throat when I listen to The Little Drummer Boy. He had no great gifts but he gave what he had; his talent.
The picture above is of my youngest grandchild, Emily. She lives with her parents and brother in the great state of Texas. One of the things not great about Texas is it is so-o-o far from Indiana.
Emily is a sweet 6-year-old with a great big heart, as you can see in the picture and will read about in this post. (Get your tissues ready)
Several weeks ago, I noticed it was a bit chilly in the house. When I checked the thermostat, the temperature did not match the 'setting.' I finally called the furnace company that services my ancient furnace and air conditioner. The month before while doing their annual inspection, it needed a new part. It was $178.00. Now the repair was going to be a bit more; $618.00. I really did not have that much money. The company graciously allowed me to pay half of it then and pay the balance in January.
So, although I was frustrated, I was also very thankful it was 'repairable' because a new furnace was out of the question. I really didn't whine about it; I just told several people about it, including my daughter in Texas.
Emily overheard her parents talking about how much it cost. She went to her room, emptied her bank, came out with a ten-dollar bill and some change.
"Send this to Grandma, Mommy. Do you think it will be enough? It's all I got."
I can't even type those words without tears in my eyes. Like the fictional little drummer boy, Emily gave all she had.
Do I give all I have? I'm not referring to money, necessarily. Do I give all my love, my compassion, my understanding, my hugs, my time?
I pray that Emily's words will resonate in my soul for years to come and I can say some day, "I hope this is enough; it's all I got."
A blessed Christmas to you.
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