Be the Gift

"Be the Gift" - Sheri & Bill (original photography by Sheri & Bill)

They say, “a gift is not a gift until it’s received.” True enough, but we’d argue it’s not fully a gift until it’s appreciated, used, or at least re-gifted with a wink. A candle left unlit, a book unopened, a compliment shrugged off -each is a small treasure still waiting for its moment to shine.

That’s why the best gifts don’t always come wrapped. Sometimes they come as a kind word, an open ear, or that rare and precious thing we never seem to have enough of -time. The gift of your time doesn’t require a bow, but it does require your presence – you know, listening instead of checking your phone. Those are the kind of gifts that outlast batteries, instruction manuals, and whatever those mysterious “spare parts” are for.

Sheri: And then there’s the gift that keeps on giving - the magic kind. The one that multiplies the more it’s shared. Positivity, kindness, and laughter are contagious in the best possible way. Ever notice how one act of genuine gratitude can ripple through a room faster than a rumor? (And with far fewer dramatic plot twists.)

Bill: We’ve all heard of “food for thought.” Well, consider this a full-course feast: gratitude is the seasoning, kindness the main dish, and laughter the dessert that makes you come back for seconds. No calories counted, no guilt required - just the good kind of full.

So maybe during this holiday season (or honestly, any Tuesday!)  - remember it isn’t about what we give, but how we give and receive. A sincere thank-you, a helping hand, a smile that says, “I see you.” Those are the everyday gifts that turn ordinary moments into memorable ones.

And when in doubt, be the gift. Come with a spirit that says, “I’m here to add, not take.” The world doesn’t always need another package on the porch. Sometimes it just needs you, in person, and preferably with phone on silent.

Now that’s a gift worth receiving…and giving again.

Positive Reflections...

“The only gift is a portion of thyself.” … Ralph Waldo Emerson (pre-1928)

“Give what you have. To someone, it may be better than you dare to think.” … Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (pre-1928)

“No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.” … Aesop (circa 600 BCE)

Music Corner...

Sometimes words alone can’t capture the warmth of giving, the joy of gratitude, or the simple beauty of presence. Music has a way of expressing what hearts feel but can’t always say. These songs echo the spirit of “Be the Gift,” celebrating kindness, generosity, and the everyday moments that make life meaningful.

“Humble and Kind” – Tim McGraw (2016)

"Give a Little Bit” – Supertramp (1977)

“Count on Me” – Whitney Houston & CeCe Winans (1996)

Sheri & Bill, Storytellers in Word Image and Song 

---

InOurView.com offers a  weekly positivity blog, motivation gallery with original photography, and original folk pop songs…all inspired by everyday life from a positive view. 

© 2025 InourView.com   All rights reserved.