It was a trip planned with nothing particular in mind. As a young
wife and mother, I had never experienced one of those with a fellow female shopper,
and although not fond of shopping, I was ready for an outing. My sister asked
her brother-in-law if he would care for our three-month-old baby while we went out
for a short while. My husband agreed, and our two little girls were excited to
help care for their baby brother.
Our excursion was only blocks away from home, so
the trip was short but sweet. I did a lot of looking that day and spent only one
dollar; I didn’t need anything, and besides, extra money was scarce those days.
But my sister insisted upon buying perfume for me, and after some persuasion, I
gratefully accepted.
Quality time doesn't require a lot of minutes, nor does it
need to be costly, but it can make a lasting impression. My sister's time shared with
me that day created precious memories I cherish: my first “girl” outing, sweet fellowship
with her, only a dollar can bring satisfaction, and the perfume (my favorite that
I still wear decades later) reminds me of my sister. The aroma of that day
was more than a mere spritz of perfume.
What is this story's message? Not once did I ever feel
deprived of friends, shopping, or finances. Although I had family living in the
vicinity and was grateful, there were other times none lived nearby. The writer
of Hebrews concluded his letter with various subjects: love one another, avoid
the love of money and be satisfied with what you have—God will care for you and
never abandon you. I was then, and still am today, beyond blessed.
You never know when a thoughtful act will be cherished forever by those who are on the receiving end.
ReplyDeleteAmen!
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