“I wrapped it myself.” she said
as she placed the box with the finely fashioned bow in my hands.
“It’s beautifully done.”
I carefully untied the bow,
slid my finger under the wrapping paper
and opened the box underneath.
“I made it myself.” she said with expectant eyes.
“It’s amazing. Thank you.” I meant it.
She smiled a smile of deep satisfaction,
like she herself had been received with joy
along with her gift.
Every day, the people we meet are handing us
the gift of who they are,
how we receive it (and them)
can change their world.