Receiving

It is the season of giving and receiving, and both are blessings that build upon each other. Giving often comes naturally, but receiving a gift is incredibly humbling. In many religions and cultures, we are taught that receiving is a form of selfishness. We may question why we are receiving such a gift, or feel unworthy of the presentation. Learning to receive is a difficult lesson to learn.

Because of our discomfort in receiving, we offer dismissive responses such as, "You shouldn't have!" or "This is too much!" When we are stunted in expressing our gratitude, we deny the giver their value. Expressing gratitude means allowing the other person to feel the complete joy of giving. There is much vulnerability when we yield to another.
We may feel beholden to respond with an equitable present. Reacting out of obligation actually takes away the blessing. Simply showing appreciation completes the cycle of giving and receiving, and it adds a dimension of trust in the relationship.

So here's the thing, it's really not about you. Someone thinks enough about you to bestow kindness unto you. It doesn't matter if you think you deserve it or not. What matters is that you show gratitude. Letting someone know that you are genuinely grateful for their thoughtfulness with a simple, heartfelt 'thank you' is enough. It validates and elevates the giver.

Exercise: Mindful Gratitude
1. Think about how you want to make the giver feel. Stop thinking about yourself.
2. Say a genuine "Thank You" and give a hug if appropriate.
Do not compare your gift or feel you have to reciprocate.
Do not wonder if the gift is too expensive or too cheap.
Do not feel unworthy of the gift.

Journal:
1. What are my learned beliefs or customs about receiving gifts?
2. What was the most unusual gift I ever received, and how did I express gratitude? Reflecting back, would I change anything about my response?

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