You are the Gift

When you go to Africa on an internship or study abroad, you are told to bring gifts. Presents for your teachers, your mentors, your patients, and even strangers that you encounter. Many of my fellow students brought an entire suitcase full of such gifts: trinkets and toys, bubbles, balls. Nothing of any true value or significance, simply items people can play with for a few hours before they get bored or the toy gets broken, whichever happens first.

In Sister Eubank’s talk titled Turning Enemies into Friends, she said, “I believe that the Lord often isn’t’ asking us for big, time-consuming gestures; He merely wants minutes of our time every day to help another person on their way.” She teaches that it is not what objects you bring and give away that are important; you are the gift. The toys will break, but memories of kindness, care, love, and understanding will last forever.

As I played with children in the nutrition center, I reflected on this principle. Instead of focusing on passing out the bubbles and bouncy balls, I tried to play with children individually. I gave them my time and my attention, my praise and my love. I did my best to make them feel special.

I hope that I was able to find success in my efforts, and create lasting memories for some of these children and parents. I know that I will never forget their faces, their beautiful smiles, and their shining countenances.