The gift of "Presence"

In the Catholic religion, when you have a baby, you choose two people to be that baby's godparents.  Godparents are chosen to make sure that if something should ever happen to the baby's parents, then it is the godparents role to see that the child continues their catholic upbringing and education.  I feel that the godparents role is even more than this, as you will read on, you will see what I mean.

When our son Michael was born, his perspective godparents along with Donnie and I met with our church's Sacrament coordinator, our dear friend Sr. Joanne.  She taught us two very special things at that meeting.  One was to always bless our children, with a tiny sign of the cross on their forehead, their hand on just an air blessing.  This sign of the cross was our way of saying God always watch over and keep our child safe.  She also told the godparents to do this.  The other important thing we learned at that meeting was that godparents should not be about the "presents" they buy for their godchild, but to give their godchild the gift of their "presence" in their lives.

This lesson is one that I think transcends religion, and can be done everyday with the people you love.  Take the time to give your friends and loved ones the gift of your "presence" it is a gift that is priceless and one that can mean so much more than a store bought gift. 

Donnie and I are truly blessed, because we chose godparents for all five of our children, that truly do give them the gift of their "presence"  Even now, as my children all grow into adulthood, their godparents give them the gift of their "presence" by even just picking up the phone and asking our children about what's new in their lives.  They take the time to show an interest in their lives. In a generation of people thinking that "time is money", the godparents of our children give our children the gift of their time, and I thinks both parties are that much richer for the bond they share.

It's kind of like paying it forward people....Take the time to be a "presence" in someones life.  You never know when that simple gesture can change a persons day from bad to good.  God is a"presence" in all of our lives (for those who choose to believe) and if we live the Golden Rule, to do unto others as you would have others do unto you....then maybe one day, when you are feeling low, someone will call you or show up at your door to give you the gift of their "presence" and make your day brighter.

Give the gift of your "Presence"  it is invaluable.