Friday, December 23rd, 2016. Yup, 9 years ago- that’s hard to believe. The significance, you ask? Well, it was an ordinary December day just before Christmas, but my task for the evening was anything but ordinary. You see, I was head-over-heels, madly in love. The way you feel just 6 weeks before your wedding day.
Now, let's set this straight. I’m no fine woodworker. I can build utilitarian things, no problem. But fine woodwork? Nope, not me. But Christmas of 16, I had decided I would build my soon-to-be wife a cedar chest. A work not of woodworking perfection, but of love and desire to create a family heirloom. So what was the task on Friday evening, the 23rd? I was frantically sanding, attaching lid hinges (that were not cooperating), and applying polyurethane. The finishing touches on a stretching and difficult project.
While totally unqualified for the project I undertook, this gift was simply the most exciting and fulfilling gift to give I have ever given. And to be sure, Bethany was excited to receive it. The chest still sits in our house today, and rarely do I consider the blemishes or “character”; instead, when I stop to think, I remember the feelings wrapped up in that gift.
Sometimes it feels we have lost sight of the true meaning of gift-giving. We’re just checking off a list, buying pricey toys and gadgets that might not even hit the mark. I get it—there’s a pressure to keep up with expectations. Every year, I find myself hoping for that perfect gift, the one that will make someone’s face light up. Some years, inspiration strikes, and other years, I just do my best to check the box. When it comes to fine-woodwork… nope, those days are behind me. 😂
What about you? Have you ever found that perfect gift—the one that truly made someone’s day? I’d love to hear your stories! Drop a comment below 👇 and share your own gift-giving experience.
Merry Christmas!! - Josh
P.S. That year, Bethany gave me a chainsaw. She was just as excited to give it to me! But sometimes I wonder, did she have a more realistic view of my woodworking skills than I? Or maybe, was she making sure her house would be warm and well stocked with firewood! In any case, that saw has been well used!🎁
Here's a picture of the cedar chest:
1 comment
Loved reading this story. Over the years I’ve given any gifts to of both immediate family and in laws. A few gifts stand out in my mind. I was excited to give a gift that I thought was cute and sentimental, but sadly the recipient did not think so much and I felt sad and disappointed. Other gifts I’ve gotten people have made their faces light up with joy and appreciation. I put together a gift basket for our mail carrier and friend once. I thoughtfully filled it with everything I thought she would like. I love the challenge of getting to know people enough so I know what gifts they would really like, not just open them and say something polite just because.
My kids have no problem letting me know exactly what gifts they want.
-Gabby