The Unexpected Gifts

Although a beautifully sunny, clear start to that autumn day, it was quite a bitter cold morning, but we determined to get out anyway. The two bags of lap blankets had been sitting by the door ready to go for more than a week, and this was finally the time mom and I designated to make a visit to the house not too far down the road. About a dozen elderly folks live at this care home, and we stop by every six months or so to take a warm blanket to those who are new residents since our last visit. There were eight this time. And they were all beautiful.
 
It’s rather incredible how about two minutes of time, a few words, generous smiles, a touch on the arm or a hug, and an unexpected gift can change the look on someone’s face and their outlook on the day. As my mom enter the first room with a cheery “good morning!” I watched the face of that sweet lady light up, saw her joy at the gift of a warm blanket for her legs, and felt full of the blessing of sharing with others.
 
We followed the caregiver around to repeat this scene seven more times. Each special resident we encountered was beautifully grateful as they got to choose a favorite from among the handmade blankets we had selected to take. For some, these blankets became the most colorful points in their room. Most couldn’t believe we were just giving these away, and one lady said it was good to know that she wasn’t forgotten there in that place, and that someone still cared.  
 
As we headed back toward the front door, our hostess was telling us how much they all appreciated our coming, and how encouraging this was for the people there. And for the workers, too. She joked that she would love a blanket as well…and perhaps that’s exactly why we had stuck a few extra in the bags. I pulled out the last one I was carrying, saying we would love to give her one, would a purple one do? She was so excited as she took it and said that purple was her very favorite color.
 
It doesn’t take long, and it doesn’t take much to encourage others. And there are so many around us who need encouraging so much. So, be encouraged to look for those around you — those you know, and those you might not have met yet — who need to know someone cares.

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, 
for with such sacrifices God is pleased.    
Hebrews 13:16