My sister, upon seeing the title of this one, will think that this post is about one of my favorite songs, which is “Simple Gifts”. The older boy used to play it when he was in middle school orchestra, and then the younger boy learned it on the guitar. I adore it, and he rarely plays it for me anymore. Don’t know the song? Since I haven’t yet caught my kid playing it on camera yet, here’s my second favorite version.
But this post isn’t about that.
As a second grade religious school teacher, I sometimes receive gifts at Hanukkah or at the end of the year. It’s not necessary, of course, for my students to bring me anything, but of course I really appreciate when the families express their appreciation for my work and the fact that I give up my Sunday mornings to help them build their child’s religious foundation.
I often receive gift cards–which ROCK, by the way–and sometimes notecards, candles or yummy treats, either homemade or store-bought. (One family, whose older child was in my class a couple of years ago and whose younger child is in my class now, buys me this fabulous toffee candy that I just want to savor forever. YUM.)
All of those things are wonderful. Sometimes, though, I get the best gift ever.
Let that be your reminder in this season that tends to focus on the material, that some of the best gifts don’t cost a thing.
©2010 Suburban Scrawl
17 Comments
Colleen - Mommy Always Wins
Ack! Thanks for making me teary — that is seriously the sweetest thing EVER. What a sweet little boy – and the fact that he looks up to your son is SUCH a compliment to you, too!
WeaselMomma
I want you to teach me how to be Jewish too, or at least all about the holidays and traditions.
I am a slow learner.
Liz@thisfullhouse
This post is simply perfect and EXACTLY what I needed to read, today, thank you my friend!!!
Mom24
Beautiful.
Otter Thomas
Perfect sentiment for this time of year. We all need to remember that more often.
Megryansmom
I always wanted to be Jewish or perhaps I was in a previous life. Can I sit next to Momma Weasel in class?
NYCPatty
That's just beautiful! What a sweet sweet kid! 🙂
Tara R.
Aww… I got a little choked up. Such a sweet kid, I remember his letter to your Eagle Scout. I think you both are making a huge difference in this little boy's life.
Momo Fali
I LOVE!
Also, WHERE do you find the time? You put me to shame.
Heather
the best gifts are the ones that are from the heart– that is OH SO TRUE.
that card is precious! 🙂
lisleman
I have daughters who are teachers and that alone is a great gift. Yes the little things in life mean so much.
This reminds me of getting a gift from the small group that I had managed when I changed jobs. They told me I was like a teacher to them. I still remember.
Mrs4444
I absolutely love this. Personal notes are the BEST!
Marla
That is priceless. Made me a bit teary. Thanks for sharing it and well done.
Matty
Jake has such a big heart for his age. Sweet.
ThePeachy1
Awesome song, how have I never heard this before? Also. BEST THANK YOU CARD EVER !!!!!
Emily
I feel my husband goes overboard on teachers' gifts as we are a low income family. He feels though that teachers and aids are doing the most important job there is, which is true.
Thanks for the music, btw. Love Jewel.
Michelle
Awww that is so sweet! I love it. But ummm toffee candy? My absolute favorite. Awesome!