Present

I’m feeling thankful so I want to write about it. Not that it’s a rare moment but I want to capture it. Gratitude can be fleeting. So can good friendship. I want to cherish both, even if I have to discipline myself. Seems reasonable.

I love that gift that keeps on giving. That sounds like a good marketing line. It is. But I’m becoming a believer. For Christmas, my Dad likes to get me, among other things, a Starbucks Gift Card. While it’s a simple, little stocking stuffer, it carries a $75 value.

And, yet, I’m finding greater value than its monetary worth.

Honestly (and gratefully) I’ve come to anticipate the Card. He’s made this his practice for several years.

Dad remains one of the easiest, enjoyable, and respected people I spend time with. I just like who he is, even if our words are few. And since we aren’t living in close proximity, the gift is a cherished reminder of his presence.

He doesn’t let too many people close, though he’s lived in the same city his whole life. He has lifelong histories with people, is respected, and well liked. But he would still rather do you a favor or feel helpful than ask anything of you.

His present has been his presence. Steadfast. Generous. Accommodating.

I’m traveling in an airport, “alone”. While not hard to do, I spied the well-known green shield. Money’s been tight, schedule is full, and company is scarce but his gift…makes him feel present.

I imagine the conversation. I enjoy the company. Dad pays most often anyway, so this is familiar to let him sponsor my morning indulgence over deeply roasted goodness.

We’re a couple of months removed from Christmas morning. I can still feel the warmth. The social drink of choice in our home growing up was & is coffee. So, part of my enjoyment is sentimental. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve taken my day off to practice renewal. I sit in a coffee shop – enjoying his present, along with a book, and some welcomed anonymity. Again, a reminder of the gift that keeps on giving.

Just a couple of months removed, I spent roughly two-thirds of the balance. That’s kind of revealing. I think that qualifies me as a needy, if not a user. But, thankfully, I think there’s more where that came from.

I look forward to seeing him again soon. And, yet he’s helping me see better.