Flash Fiction Challenge, 2019.09.12 – The Greatest Gift
September 12, 2019, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story that includes the greatest gift. Answer it as if it were a question, or show what it could be. Go where the prompt leads you!
Gifts come in all sizes and forms. Some are tangible, others are elusive.
My baby daughter is a miraculous gift. She was tiny, weighed one pound thirteen ounces. The nurse wrapped her in layers of blankets to put her in my arms, and placed a heating lamp over us to keep her warm. My daughter is now a mother of a heavenly gift, a healthy and intelligent two-year-old daughter.
Mothers may resonate with the selfless love we have for our children. We wish to take the place of their illnesses and pain. Love is a great gift we received as children and pass on to our children.
My husband told me when he woke up at night, he inched over and put his ear closed to my nose to make sure I was breathing. I survived from stage IV melanoma cancer. The life I have is a gift of a second chance of life.
I could think of many tangible gifts received, but they come and go. As to the indescribable gifts, it is the sum of great gifts come along my way that mold my present being.
The Greatest Gift
“It’s easier for me to give than to receive.”
“I know, Martha. When you receive, you feel weak.”
“You’re right, I feel helpless and vulnerable and admit other people are stronger.”
“Being able to receive gifts is a gift. When we receive gifts from others, we give them a gift of giving.”
“I never thought of it. When I receive a gift, I feel obligated to precipitate and feel guilty when the chances to return the favors become impossible.”
“The movie Pay It Forward comforts me and changed my understanding of giving.”
“I can tell it’s a great concept.”
~
Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction, 2019.09.12 – The Greatest Gift
The Showers of Blessings 
I really enjoyed the movie ‘Pay it forward’ and try very hard to give as well as receive.
And it makes me happy to read good news stories every day. Distance diminishes when we support each other.
May you continue in good health with your with your positive attitude and gratitude!
I help out with some driving for my elder neighbor and felt bad about accepting his offer to treat me to lunch every week. It was pointed out to me that he enjoys being able to give back to those who help him (he’s got quite a good support group (no close family in the area and no children). When he takes his friends to lunch it gets him out of his home and makes him feel good that he can do something for those who help him.
So yes to “Being able to receive gifts is a gift. When we receive gifts from others, we give them a gift of giving.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
I understand how it feels for receiving and giving. It was so hard for me to receive when I was strong and well. The first time I received huge emotional support was from my sister when I told her about my divorce. Then it was my cancer. People signed up to give me rides. One person said, “I wanted so bad to drive you before you don’t need help any more.” I then realized they considered a blessing for helping me.
I think you’d make your neighbor feel good for accepting his treats.
Thank you for sharing, Jules. You can write a short post about this encounter with your neighbor. People will be encouraged by it just like the conversation we have right now.
If you do, send me a link. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think have already written about my neighbor (maybe more than once)… I’m not sure if it was for CR or not… I’ll have to look.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh you found it. Thank you, Jules!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, here’s one and it is even a CR piece 🙂
Abundant Optimism
LikeLike
Miriam, you understand deeply the precious gifts of life, and yet your flash focuses on giving. Your survival and acceptance of gifts have lent you wisdom and passion for life.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, Charli, in the end, the meaning in adversity is what it counts for me!
LikeLike
Pingback: The Greatest Gift « Carrot Ranch Literary Community
Beautiful, Miriam!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Denise!
LikeLiked by 1 person
One pound thirteen! My premature son was closer to four pounds. I’m so happy she’s doing so well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it was surely a miracle back then. Thank you for sharing your son is premature, Chelsea. How old is he now?
LikeLiked by 1 person
He is now 11 years old, and doing very well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good to hear that, Chelsea! I lost track, is your new baby born?
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re fine. I’m due in December. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good to hear, Chelsea. My daughter’s second baby is due next March.🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautifully done, Miriam… ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
I appreciate your comment, Bette! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
This was wonderful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your comment, Susan!!
LikeLiked by 1 person