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Giving the Gift of Receiving
A few years ago, I had just returned from a two-week tour of Australia and New Zealand. It was a powerful and magical journey, a tapestry of experiences that left an indelible impression on me.
What I found most rewarding was the people and friends I met up with in both countries. I was humbled by the support so many offered and pleased that all my workshops and private sessions were filled long before I got there.
But one experience that set the theme for the entire tour stands out.
I had already presented a talk at the Mind, Body, Spirit Festival in Sydney and was preparing to go to Mysterys Bookstore in Penrith for two days of private sessions and a workshop.
My friend Peter, who is the husband of visionary author, artist and spiritualist, Ravynne Phelan, offered to drive from his home in Penrith, which was one hour away, to pick me up in Sydney.
Prior to his offer, I wasn’t sure how I would get there; I had considered taking either the train or a taxi, having decided not to rent a car for the trip. In addition, he invited me to stay at his and Ravynne’s house on the night between the private sessions, rather than return to Sydney and have to travel back the next day.
Peter arrived early to pick me up, and as we had spare time before we needed to be in Penrith, I asked him if he wanted a “long black” to drink, which is hot water added to a double shot of espresso with no cream or sugar. He agreed, so we went to the little café next to the hotel where I was staying.
While Peter got us a table, I approached the counter to order our drinks and my breakfast (Peter had already eaten that morning). As I waited in line, I found myself standing behind a fellow who, after getting served, walked away, slightly limping and holding onto a cane.
As I moved to the front of the line, I saw a $20 bill on the counter and pushed it towards the clerk.
She pushed it back toward me saying the man just before left it there and said to use it to pay for the next person’s order!
I was rather stunned, quickly going through all of my reasons why I shouldn’t accept it. It didn’t take me long to surrender to the fact that this truly was a gift, an offering that I needed to receive gracefully and with gratitude.
So I ordered my breakfast and two long blacks and joined Peter at our table.
I told him what happened, both of us nodding in amazement and amusement, and wondering what message we were receiving from Spirit.
Then I heard my Inner Voice say: “Receive and pay it forward.”
This confirmed what had already been happening, evidenced by the gifts I’d received on my visit to Australia, including Peter’s willingness to drive me to the bookstore and his offer to let me stay at his place overnight.
I recognized it was important for me to maintain these principles and to show gratitude for whatever gifts Life offers, in whatever form they’re given.
Following my experience in the café, I’ve received many other wonderful gifts from others, both tangible and intangible.
Throughout the rest of my trip, and for every day since, including right now as I sit at my computer, I do my best to maintain these principles and attitudes.
Even saying a simple thank you when anyone does a small favor is important, such as the waved “thank you” I gave to a driver who stopped to let me cross the street yesterday.
It occurred to me that a willingness to open-heartedly receive gifts from other people is truly a gift to the giver.
I know that when someone expresses their gratitude for whatever I give them, it makes me feel appreciated and respected. When I turn that around, I realize that when we receive something from someone and openly acknowledge our appreciation, the giver in turn is rewarded.
I encourage you to try this: for one day, look for every opportunity to express your gratitude and appreciation for what is offered to you, in word or in deed, whether it’s the food you eat, the sunshine you bask in, or a hug from someone you love.
And take time to thank the Creator of All for your life and all that you have in you.
