Christmas is just one week away. Are you looking forward to the reaction on someone’s face when he/she opens the gift that you put a lot of thought into? Do you reminisce about past Christmases and some of the special gifts that you’ve received? This time of year makes me think about Isabella…
Isabella, an elderly woman, was feeling somewhat down. Her husband passed away two years ago and her children lived in different states. Her best friend just went into an assistive living facility. Rather than dwelling on these things, Isabella decided to haul out one of her closets and get rid of things that have been stored for decades. She began to pull out blankets, framed pictures, old souvenirs, books and other odds and ends.
In the far corner of one of the shelves, Isabella spotted a small box. Using her cane, she inched the box toward her until she was able to safely reach it. The box was a simple cardboard one, adorned with Christmas stickers. She took the box and sat down in a chair. Lifting the cover carefully, Isabella saw the white tissue paper with cute little drawings–a Christmas tree, Santa, a stocking and an angel. She instantly knew what was wrapped inside of the tissue. It was a bell given to her by her oldest son, Roger. Isabella removed the bell from the box and began to ring it gently. As it was ringing, a note fell out. In Roger’s eight year old handwriting, the note said, “Mommy, whenever you need a hug, ring this bell.” Isabella had no recall of ever seeing the note until that moment.
As she continued to gently ring the bell, her thoughts centered around Roger. He was such a thoughtful little boy, always caring for others. As a teen, he worked hard at a gas station. Roger got married in his 30’s and raised three children. Recently retired, he and his wife have been doing a lot of volunteering.
So lost in her thoughts, at first Isabella didn’t feel the hand placed on her shoulder. Then she heard his voice, “After all these years, you’re finally ringing my bell.” Realizing that Roger was in the room, Isabella turned around. Roger gave her a long hug and asked her to go downstairs with him. Gathered in her living room, were her children, their children and grandchildren! Isabella’s feeling blue quickly faded away as she talked and laughed with her family.
How about including a personal note with some of your gifts this year? You’ll never know when and how they’ll impact someone’s life.
Listen to your heart…
Tags: Christmas, family, relationships
Awwww!!!