I received an unexpected gift last Thursday afternoon. I received an olive branch. I believe it will be the most meaningful gift I will receive over this gift giving season.
I must admit it was awkward and challenging to receive. The pointed and honest discussion brought up uncomfortable feelings for me ...thoughts and hurt that I would have preferred not to call attention to.
Alas, the courageous person extending my gift was serious and persistent. She truly cares for me...for us in our relationship and she pressed on and insisted that I reach out and take what was offered.
It was liberating...it was emotional...it was warm....it was like the introduction of fresh cool air when you didn't even know you were in a stale room....it was sacrificial ......it was real love.
I am so grateful for my branch. I have been holding it very close to my heart. It has motivated me to tidy up my heart and look for branches I might need to give and extend ..................may I encourage you to give a gift like this......a gift of love, maturity and responsibility. The gift of yourself at it's most vulnerable place...a gift of truth and trust.
Warning: Do NOT mistake this gift for a buried hatchet...where the hurt is just ignored but not addressed. Do NOT think that the extension of a branch looks like smart and clever funny qip that might acknowledge someone's pain but takes no responsibility for it.
NO............. the extension of a branch takes courage, it is not for the faint of heart...it is THE true gift of oneself.
Thank you Annie, you are a class act and I have been truly blessed.
I must admit it was awkward and challenging to receive. The pointed and honest discussion brought up uncomfortable feelings for me ...thoughts and hurt that I would have preferred not to call attention to.
Alas, the courageous person extending my gift was serious and persistent. She truly cares for me...for us in our relationship and she pressed on and insisted that I reach out and take what was offered.
It was liberating...it was emotional...it was warm....it was like the introduction of fresh cool air when you didn't even know you were in a stale room....it was sacrificial ......it was real love.
I am so grateful for my branch. I have been holding it very close to my heart. It has motivated me to tidy up my heart and look for branches I might need to give and extend ..................may I encourage you to give a gift like this......a gift of love, maturity and responsibility. The gift of yourself at it's most vulnerable place...a gift of truth and trust.
Warning: Do NOT mistake this gift for a buried hatchet...where the hurt is just ignored but not addressed. Do NOT think that the extension of a branch looks like smart and clever funny qip that might acknowledge someone's pain but takes no responsibility for it.
NO............. the extension of a branch takes courage, it is not for the faint of heart...it is THE true gift of oneself.
Thank you Annie, you are a class act and I have been truly blessed.
