The Gift of Self

"The only gift is a portion of thyself." - EmersonAs a very young child, I recall watching a children's film titled, "TheLittle Drummer Boy." The animated fictional story told about a poorshepherdboy who went to visit the Christ child on the day of his birth. When hearrived, the boy realized that other visitors presented the baby Jesus andhis parents with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, but the shepherdboyhad no gift due to his impoverished state. The only possession in the worldthe child had was a small handmade drum, and so, the little drummer boy gavethe only gift he could give out of the pureness of his heart. The youngshepherd picked up his drum, and as he looked in wonder at the Christ child,he played the best song ever; a drum solo inspired by the opening of his ownheart.

Even as an adult, this animated cartoon never fails to bring a tear to myeye. Certainly, it is only a make-believe story, but the message it conveysis not only very real, but of great importance.

The gift of self is a most precious gift, indeed, because it is not a giftthat can be purchased easily with money, but requires the time, energy, andheartfelt sentiments of the giver. For example, every mother knows how herheart leaps when herchild presents her with a hand-drawn card, offers her a hand-pickedflower, or gives her that old kindergarten standby, the noodle necklace! Idon't know about you, but that silly noodle necklace was more precious to methan diamonds or pearls! This, my friends, is a gift of love. A gift ofself.

There are birthday gifts, and Christmas gifts. Gifts of fruit, chocolatesand flowers. However, the most precious gift known to all of mankind, isthegift of salvation ourheavenly Father presented all of us when He allowed His Son, Jesus Christ,tobe a living sacrifice for our sins. Our Creator did not "have" to do this,but He loved us so richly as individuals, that He gave to us the greatestgift He could give. The gift of love. The gift of self.

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Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2003 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living Ecstatic Loving: How to have more peace and joy in marriage, and life in general by walking in harmony with God," and "Son Salutations: A refreshing collection of modern inspirations for those who seek God each day." For more information, visit her web page at www.angelfire.com/mi/melschurr