Updated: August 3, 2016
Originally Published: February 17, 2015
You know those moments when you read something that just sticks with you? I had one of those recently while revisiting Story of a Soul, the heartfelt memoir of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. There’s a part in there that really resonates with me.
Picture this: It’s 1897, and Thérèse, in her early 20s and facing the challenges of tuberculosis, is trying to write down her childhood memories while sitting in her wheelchair in her convent’s garden. Her Prioress has asked her to do this, but distractions abound. She writes about how a Sister nearby tries to engage her in conversation about hay, ducks, and the doctor’s visits. Another worker even tosses flowers onto her lap, likely thinking it would inspire her. But Thérèse’s heart isn’t in it. All she really wants is to write without distractions. Yet, she makes sure to maintain a cheerful facade for the sake of her Sisters.
This passage got me thinking about how we often receive gifts and the emotions they can stir up. I remember a time when my partner surprised me with a gigantic gardenia plant—just because he knew I loved them. My response? A weak, “Thanks, it’s so…big.” Inside, I was panicking about where to put it and how to care for it, fearing I’d kill it in no time. Instead of embracing the thoughtful gesture, I let self-doubt ruin the moment. It’s funny how gifts can trigger unexpected feelings, right?
Andy Warhol once said, “You can never predict what little things will set off peculiar emotional reactions in other people.” That gardenia was a perfect example. My partner clearly wanted to bring me joy, but I let my worries overshadow that. I should have focused on the spirit of the gift rather than my own insecurities. Now, every time I see a gardenia, I’m reminded of that moment and how I could have responded better.
Accepting gifts with an open heart isn’t just about saying thank you; it’s about genuinely appreciating the thought behind them. If you’re interested in more about the journey of parenthood and home insemination, check out this helpful resource. For anyone considering options, sites like Make a Mom offer great insights into insemination kits, and for an even deeper dive, take a look at this post on home insemination.
In summary, the next time you receive a gift, remember to focus on the intention behind it, rather than the specifics of the gift itself. Letting go of self-doubt and embracing the joy of the gesture can lead to a more fulfilling experience.