The Last Gift

At some time in your life, you will receive the last gift from a loved one, or perhaps you will give the last gift.

The Christmas holidays are a bittersweet blend of joy and reflection. While we celebrate the season surrounded by family and friends, we also hold close the memories of those no longer with us, cherishing their presence in our hearts.

Gifts

After the crowds have all gone and the gifts have been opened, a quiet time remains. No longer are the days when we are hurrying to get from one family’s house to another, or watching the children, or grandchildren play with the toys from their Christmas list. The day is just different, no less joyous.

It reminds me of the last gifts I received from my parents. My Mother died some twenty-plus years ago and my Dad four years ago. The last gift I received from him was longer than four years ago when he was able to still live at home and felt that desire to give Christmas presents to his children.

I came across his last gift during church on Sunday, tucked away in my Bible. It was a small amount of cash—nothing extravagant, but priceless to me. I could never bring myself to spend it. Holding onto it feels like keeping a small piece of him with me.

My mother, so proud of the new home we had built in the country, gave me a set of fluffy white towels. She passed away before the next Christmas. Those towels are still neatly folded in the cabinet—I can’t bring myself to use them. I just want to hold onto them. When she gave them to me, she had no idea it would be her last gift to me.

The same goes for my dad’s last gift. He signed the gift envelope himself, even though my sister had written my name on the front. Both she and my oldest sister are gone now too. At one point, I thought about removing the piece of tape and scrap of tinsel stuck to the envelope, but then I realized it was freezer tape he had used to secure it to his Christmas tree. I decided to leave it just as it was. The envelope stays tucked in my Bible as a cherished reminder, and the towels remain in the cabinet—unused but occasionally washed to keep them fresh. It might seem silly, but it brings me comfort, and that’s what matters.

The Last Gift

It would be lovely if the last gift from a loved one were something special, like a piece of jewelry, fine china, or a cherished keepsake. But life doesn’t usually work that way. We don’t give or receive gifts thinking, “This will be the last one.” Yet, sometimes it is. That final gift could be anything—shoes, a shirt, cash, or even a guitar. My luck it will probably be socks and underwear.)))

Cherish every gift you receive, and give your gifts with love and care. Take photos and record videos—one day, you or someone else will be grateful to have those memories.

Wishing you a Christmas filled with love, cherished memories, and the joy of giving from the heart.

Handmade Christmas Heart Keepsake Ornament

Winter Mantel Mix: Fresh Cedar & Faux Pine