Her gaze sparkled with the vibrant energy of a joyful child.
She presented a gift, saying,
However, she requested that you unwrap it alongside your spouse.
I occupied a spacious, sun-drenched dining hall within our temporary residence. The atmosphere pulsed with the energy of fellow guests and bustling activity.
This marked the final repast
concluding the final day
of the summer's last gathering ~
from the previous twelve months.
Describing my state as merely tired would be a vast understatement.
I expressed my gratitude and inquired if the intention was for immediate opening – "at this very moment?"
"Certainly," she responded, her tone brimming with cheerful anticipation.
I accepted the meticulously folded parchment and located my spouse among the bustling crowd of enthusiastic guests.
The lovely young girl observed the scene, her eyes shimmering with delight.
As we carefully unrolled the meticulously bound parcel, we uncovered a financial instrument. Accompanying it was a heartfelt message endorsed by thirteen households.
It read {in part}, "This sum is intended for your use…in the islands of Hawaii."
A sharp intake of breath escaped me.
Tears followed swiftly.
In that very instant.
Before the eyes of the divine and the assembled crowd.
You see, fulfilling the dream of a future trip to Hawaii has long resided in our deepest wishes.
The generous present bestowed by these individuals rendered this aspiration achievable.
We feel deeply touched.
And overflowing with joyous anticipation….
This represents one of those precious instances I intend to safeguard in my memory and hold dear for all time.
A special present.
A wonderful blessing.
The divine has consistently shown such thoughtful and kind care for us, providing us with
sustenance to consume,
a dwelling to protect us from heavy downpours and strong gusts,
tranquility, happiness, and optimism during difficult, sorrowful periods,
And that specific occasion?
That day in the Dining Room with the girl whose eyes shone and who held a note tied with string?
That moment represented what is "abundantly above".
We do not require Hawaii just to make it through…
It is a gift.
Directly from the Source of every good thing ~
(and that lovely girl with bright eyes and those kind families…)
We are eagerly looking forward to warm island air and pale, sandy shores…
for a period of 7 days next month…
{Google image}
…in HAWAII!!
{Many insightful readers noticed this small detail during Barbara’s conversation. Well done to you!}
