Today Donna of Sharing Life’s Abundance shares her vision on the gift of giving.
I am a vegetable gardener by heart. Moving to the Phoenix desert from California 30 years was a big disappointment at first.
I was challenged by the brick hard- clay soil, the alkaline water, and the sun…so much sun. I had no internet, no garden clubs, and no books specific to this area. But my passion took over. I did the best I could with what I had. When life handed me lemons-I planted vegetables… year round.
Fast forward. 30 years later. I have 800 square feet of intensely planted veggies year round. I plant every two weeks and harvest something every day. Yes, like most people, I long for more. But I know that like most people; if I had one acre, I would want 2. So I find that it is best to do the most with what I have  right now.
I use my garden to feed my family, my animals, and to share with my friends. I love to give, and my garden provides me with something unique to give.
Let me explain.
I have a very dear friend that I love to feed.  Why? Because when I make her a meal, she slowly savors each bite, and makes little noises of pleasure when she is eating.  I especially like it when her eyes roll back in her head. To some people, that would be a bit much, but I know that she really does know the work that goes into growing, and preparing the food.
I have certain friends that I love to give to. They make quite a big deal out of a few tomatoes, or a couple of squash. I 
would not say that they are faking it, or going overboard, but they are showing appreciation for what those vegetables represent.
Here is my point. I love to give-yes, just because the act itself, makes me feel good. But when I can sense true appreciation for the gift-it pleases me all the more.
So if you happen to receive a gift-don’t be embarrassed or act uncomfortable, the giver did not intend that. The giver intended to feel the joy that they feel by making you happy. Do make sure to show your appreciation. That is your gift to the giver.
If you are in the position to give, give freely and without abandon-expecting nothing in return and just see what happens; the you too are SHARING LIFE’S ABUNDANCE.
