As I reflect upon the gifts
That I’ve gotten through the years;
Those childlike hopes that one more thing
Might chase away life’s aches and tears-

I see a trail of special gifts
That didn’t come with box or bow;
They did not come upon demand
But freely, from hearts that know-

That our lives are built on moments
Not on things that fade away;
Hearts that offered respite when
Life’s trials clouded the day.

I see soft eyes that let me share
The dark questions deep within;
And a welcomed laugh together
That gave me strength to start again.

I see those who’ve encouraged me
To be all that I can be;
Those who’ve been my champions
When my worst enemy was me.

I see protective loving wings
That held me close to rest,
When life’s challenges caused more grief
Then what my heart could then assess.

I don’t see trinkets shiny new
As I think of gifts today;
Instead I see those selfless gifts,
Born out of love that came my way.

And so those gifts I’ve treasured most
And with which I’ll never part,
Are those not seen, or even touched-
But only felt within my heart.

                                                            Debbie Meece