This Old Thing!

How many times have we been sincerely complimented on something we're wearing and responded, "Oh, this old thing? I've had it for years."  While we wanted to accept the compliment humbly, we actually end up completely negating the compliment.  Speaking for myself, it's hard to break the habit!

What should we say, if complimented?  A simple "Thank you so much!" would be easy to say, and very affirming to the gift-giver.

This is the season of buying gifts and soon we will be receiving plenty of gifts for Christmas.  Perhaps we need to just practice saying, "Thank you.  I've enjoyed it for a long time," or something similar.

My mother and grandmother ingrained in me the necessity of receiving gifts graciously, even if it was what we didn't ask for or want, and, even if we didn't like it.  They reasoned, "Someone has gone to the trouble of buying something for you, wrapping it, and bringing it to you: think of something nice to say."

Many years ago, my very cultured, late mother-in-law (may she rest in peace!) received an outfit personally sewn by me.  Jumpers were the style and I knew she loved red and really looked good in red. I had her measurements so I custom-made a red jumper and coordinating red plaid long-sleeved shirt.  I was quite pleased with myself.  Imagine how I felt when she opened the gift, took a long look at it, and tersely declared, "I like the jumper. I'll wear it.  I hate plaid.  I won't wear it."  I felt horrible!  Needless to say, it wasn't very long until I stopped sewing for her altogether.  I thought I was stupid to try to please her.

Must we always be HONEST?  Is 'honesty' the highest value?  NO!!  Charity is the highest value!  That means that we can not tell the truth if it is hurtful to someone.  Note: I'm note saying don't tell the truth in all circumstances, say, in court, or in very important matters.  I'm saying that we should not give our true feelings if it hurts someone, in the event of gift receiving.  We must tell the TRUTH IN LOVE!

My mother-in-law could have just as easily complimented me, "Oh, what a good job you did sewing this.  I will wear it often."  Then she could have worn it as a pajama top if nothing else!  As it was, I felt slapped on both cheeks with her response.

So, let's be creative this Christmas and give lots of compliments to those who give us gifts!

Lord, in Heaven, YOU are our Supreme Gift!  May all peoples everywhere come to realize this!