I stunned someone today with this idea:
Interpersonal interactions are a gift.
Like, if I (Jen) bring you (You) a memory, or an experience, or a request? That’s a gift.
It’s not that each person is precious (though they are). It’s not that folks should fall down in awe when they receive a piece of another person in this way. It’s more like this:
- A cup of tea in the morning is a gift.
- A meal you bring me is a gift.
- Something thoughtfully done is a gift.
And sharing a memory, a thought, a need…anything that makes you vulnerable? That is a gift of intimacy.
If you receive many gifts and take them for granted…
Or if you receive gifts and do not acknowledge them…
If you just toss each one onto the couch, with no sign of appreciation?
You will receive fewer and fewer gifts.