THE GIFT OF WORDS
It was the end of another school year – a big deal to a ninth grader, make that tenth grader. A lot happens in a year, especially at that age. So much happens it’s easy to forget about the little things we tend to take for granted along the way. There were the studies, lots of studying, social events, like the Sadie Hawkins dance, and a school play. Between pre-season and the regular season, it was a grueling lacrosse season. There were out of town tournaments along with out of town mission trips and retreats. Never a dull moment… well, a free moment anyway.
In some ways, it seems like an eternity since she started high school, in other ways it seems like just a month ago. I recall our youngest’s apprehension starting high school, I can even recall some of my own for that matter. When our little one, who’s bigger than her mom, went to clean out her locker we discovered some interesting things, like the pencil pouch with the holes punched in the appropriate place to carry in the good ole’ trusty three-ring binder that still had the tag on it and never got a single day’s use.
Our youngest also discovered the micro-lunch box her mom had long since given up hounding her about. The school year was so long I guess the youngest of our daughters forgot that she’d turned the top of the micro-lunch box, where a drink was cleverly designed to be carried, into a keepsake storage facility.
My wife began exploring the papers within the transformed lunch box to determine what was worth saving, what needed to be tossed, and generally making sure nothing living inside had taken over. In the very top of the lunch box there were only two notes, two pink notes, what used to be sticky notes.
I watched as my wife sorted through the papers and get noticeably quiet and deliberate with the old sticky notes. It looked like reverence. “They’re from Ali,” my wife said in almost a whisper, “From the first day of school,” she mumbled as she read the keepsake notes from one of her daughters to another. “I forgot about that,” I said, “She wanted Ali to make her lunch the first day of school,” I recalled. My wife had started that ritual with all three of the girls as they were living through school days.
The first note had been sitting on top of the lunch box written to strengthen and encourage a girl starting high school by a big sister that would be headed off to college a week later to finish her last semester. The one who when leaving for college the first time sprang leaks in her little sister’s heart.
The second note was strategically placed inside the lunch box to be read at lunch time on her little sister’s first day of school. The notes were written with care and love, they even said so… “I better save these,” my wife said softly and set the aside as she finished cleaning things up. She will.
We tend to forget specifics and details in life, then there are times when one gets documented, like the sisters lunch notes, and we recall in detail the struggle, the strife, the stress, the success, the sentiment, the love and the memory. Words get bandied about daily, some out of necessity, some out of luxury, but all of them underestimated.
The gift of words should be measured and weighted… then cherished and saved… to remind us of the exact feelings of love and care spent along the precious journey…
Betty Draper
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 7:33 am
A precious post Floyd…I hope your daughter reads this. When your times comes to see Jesus face to face your daughters will sort through these post and be proud once again you were their Dad. Your memories so well written has stirred me to do as my daughter requested…write your stories down Mom, for me, for the grandchildren. Not sure if I will post them but write them I will. Thanks brother.
Floyd
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 7:54 am
Wow. I’m honored that the words our Father puts into our hearts He uses to lift us up, Betty. What a gift! In Him our simple words become profound truths of His love and sovereignty. I hope you’ll let me read some of what you write that you’ll pass down to your loves ones. Thanks for the wonderful comment, Betty.
Doug Blair
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 8:50 am
You watch your kids grow up. You chuckle over vignettes that pop out of a stiffening memory. You fear the fleetingness of time, and the life events that call for separation. Fear not! In our faith the great reunion is just around the corner … in the fifth chapter of Revelation.
Floyd
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 2:24 pm
I agree, Doug, and we have a ton of gifts between now and then. We are blessed indeed to see life for what it really is. Thanks, Doug.
Hutch
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 9:33 am
This was touching. Thanks for putting yourself out there for other people to benefit from.
Floyd
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 2:26 pm
I can be a bit on the hard side at times, but there are other times when I see the true treasures in life and cherish them instantly. To know and see the love between our loved ones is a gift from God for sure. Thanks, Hutch.
Hazel Moon
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 6:05 pm
Those little notes are precious and show love so well too. Children grow up so quickly and soon they will be out on their own and your nest will be empty.
I had a cardboard box in my closet where I saved important papers, and small trinkets. I think I still have it somewhere.
Floyd
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 9:49 am
It does go by so fast. I think most of the time we as dads miss out on this kind of stuff, I just happened to be around at the genesis and the revelation of our daughter’s notes. Glad you hung onto those keepsakes, Hazel. They mean more than some things that the world treasures too much of… Thanks, Hazel.
Ngina Otiende
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 6:30 pm
Amen Floyd, thanks for the reminder about the gifts of words. Recently I was going through a bagful of cards and I came upon old notes I’d written to my husband, then fiance. Most had me laughing and blushing (I was quite the elaborate mushy one 🙂 ) but at the same time reminded me of small details and things I’d long forgotten. Great reminders, words are.
Floyd
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 9:54 am
Exactly. Can you even put a value on those notes? God gives us treasures that can’t even be calculated by mathematical calculations. I’d say the things that can’t be counted in that manner have more value all the way around. Not a coincidence that God’s Word is the foundation of all love and value in words… Thanks, Ngina.
Barb Raveling
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 7:36 pm
Don’t you love sisters? My two daughters are also close – one is at college–and staying in her college town this summer– and one at home but they talk a lot by phone. I have so many great memories of them when they were little. That was really sweet of your older daughter to write notes for your younger daughter’s lunch box. Good memories!
Floyd
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 9:58 am
It is amazing. All three girls stay in constant contact and have my wife added to their text messages. Our oldest is in Michigan this weekend and is sending her sister pictures of sports cars at a car show… I don’t know where they got that? It is a joy to watch, what a blessing and gift from God. Couldn’t agree more, Barb. Thanks.
David
Saturday, July 20, 2013 @ 11:19 pm
Real love shared, cause someone dared, to pen some word to say they cared …
Floyd
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 10:00 am
Brilliant, David. That is a Steinbeck type of story there. Brilliant. Thanks.
Mia
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 4:15 am
Dear Floyd
Yes, words can be the giftwrap that wraps up the gift of love when used wisely! But it can also be the carriers of much grief and pain when used carelessly and selfishly. I can imagine how special these notes must be for your wife.
Blessings XX
Mia
Floyd
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 10:01 am
For sure, Mia. As God’s words says, words are sharper than a two edged sword- they can lift up or tear down. Thanks for using your gift to build His body, sister. Yeah, those notes are keepers to be sure. Thanks, Mia.
Mia
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 4:15 am
Dear Floyd
Yes, words can be the giftwrap that wraps up the gift of love when used wisely! But it can also be the carriers of much grief and pain when used carelessly and selfishly. I can imagine how special these notes must be for your wife.
Blessings XX
Mia
Linda@Creekside
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 11:04 am
‘The gift of words should be measured and weighted… then cherished and saved… to remind us of the exact feelings of love and care spent along the precious journey…’
And that sentence said it all. May all we write, speak, the messages we sent … be true gift, the priceless kind.
Floyd
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 4:22 pm
Agreed, Linda. The greatest gifts are the ones that exchange and barter matters of the heart. Thanks, Linda.
Lynn Morrissey
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 3:52 pm
Floyd, this is so poignant and meaningful. I’m soooo glad you wrote it, because of its incredible importance. My passion is the written word, and how we can use our words to uplift and encourage. Certainly we can do that orally, but as you, your wife, and daughters discovered with the lunch-box letters, there is something especially significant about *writing* words of encouragement, because they are tangible, accessible, and permanent. My ministry motto is “A life worth living is worth recording.” Whether journaling, writing letters of encouragement, or just writing out Scriptures (to better seal them in our hearts) and our prayers, God uses His written Word and ours to change lives and to give us the gift of permanent memory. What better gift can we give Him than our words of love and gratitude written back to Him? And what better legacy can we leave our children than writing about our faith or writing words of encouragement to uplift them long after we’re gone? Oh yes, Floyd, indeed this is an extremely important post, and I so thank you for writing it!
Fondly,
Lynn
Floyd
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 5:09 pm
I know for sure that the written word is your passion… and how I missed that passion! I agree with you one hundred percent, Lynn. Words are one of God’s greatest gifts. He is The Word… I know you left your mark on Europe! Glad to have you back, sister… you were sorely missed! Thanks, Lynn.
Lynn Morrissey
Sunday, July 21, 2013 @ 8:38 pm
Oh what a warm welcome home, Floyd. I really appreciate that, and I certainly missed reading here. I had not Internet access in the UK, and frankly, had no time to read. But I love taking time and luxuriating in your words here. They’re always such a blessing! Not sure if I left my mark in England and Scotland, but they surely left their mark on me. How I loved these beautiful countries.
Fondly,
Lynn
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:26 pm
You’re welcome, Lynn. I also suspect you left an indelible mark in the lives of everyone you encountered. God’s children have a way of doing that…
Bernard
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 7:34 am
Great inspiration. Words do have power. They have the power to lift up or let down, encourage or discourage, build up or tear down. If we speak or write more words of kindness and love as your daughter, we will have stronger families and communities.
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:28 pm
Great point, Bernard. It really does start with the smallest of things. Funny how those type of “small” things go so far and we carry them within our hearts as treasures for a lifetime. Thanks, Bernard.
Michael Holmes
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 7:50 am
This is the exact reason I started journaling and chronicling my life more. It’s so easy to forget those moments in the hustle and bustle. I want to be able to look back 10, 15, 20 years and see what God did and remember those moments that took my breath away.
This is great story Floyd
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:29 pm
It is a gift to be able to share words and use them to remember. I’m with you, even if they do forget some things, they won’t be able to forget all of them with my pen around! Thank you, Mike.
Lisa notes
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 8:42 am
Why do you always have to make me cry, Floyd? ha. Another touching post. I have my own little collection of post-it notes I’ve received through the years, but I’m reminded today that I need to be more proactive about WRITING post-it notes too. I haven’t in awhile.
Interestingly enough, as I was checking pockets before putting everyone’s clothes into the washer this morning (because I never know what I might find!), I found a post-it note written to my daughter last week from her co-worker, thanking her for being such an encouraging help. So even though it wasn’t written to me or by me, it still made a huge impression on me, and makes me stop to thank God for my daughter and for her job and co-worker.
Post-it notes: who knew they’d end up as such tools of ministry??? Thanks for another winning post, Floyd.
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:33 pm
I’d never thought of it, Lisa, but you’re right! Post it notes are massive tools for the building and encouraging of God’s children. That’s great that you got to glimpse a side of your daughter from another person’s perspective… Made me smile… That lovely apple didn’t fall far from tree. Thank you for the kind words, Lisa.
April
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 10:28 am
I’m reminded of the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can break my heart.” We should be so careful how we use our words. Moments like this are when words are the most special and should be cherished. 🙂
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:35 pm
I’m with you, April. The little unscheduled or planned events are often the sweetest and should definitely be cherished… I do this one and know my wife does as well. Thanks, April.
Hazel Moon
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 11:47 am
Good one, This will show up at “Tell Me a Story.”
http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:37 pm
Thanks, Hazel. And thanks for sharing all the great stories at your special site! http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Dan Erickson
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 1:14 pm
Every once in awhile I write a note on a napkin in my daughter’s lunch. It’s a wonderful thing to do. Thanks for the reminder, Floyd.
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:38 pm
You know that didn’t surprise me one bit, Dan. I think I somehow already knew that! You’re a great dad. Thanks, Dan.
tcavey
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 1:20 pm
Sweet post.
Nothing can replace those precious hand written notes.
I remember after my dad died I was boxing up some of his stuff for my mom when I came across a small box of his. I opened it not knowing what I’d find. Inside were all the cards I’d made him over the years. It was a healing moment to know he’d loved me enough to keep the messy little cards I’d made him over the years.
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 3:49 pm
That just gave me chills, TC. That’s how you know how special you were. Your dad’s own box of keepsakes that he valued more than the things of this world. What a blessing and an honor. God knew how that would impact you… Bittersweet blessings, TC. Thanks for sharing that.
tcavey
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 12:34 pm
God’s always working, even when we don’t realize it. I’m so thankful He sees ahead and prepares for us.
Thanks for this awesome and touching post.
Floyd
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 4:04 pm
I agree, TC. It really is the little things that end up meaning so much. The gifts we can’t buy always seem to have the most value. Thanks, TC.
Loren Pinilis
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 6:18 pm
That’s a cool tradition. I bet the waterworks were flowing as they reread those.
When we go through changes and tough times, we’re just so vulnerable and in need of encouragement. Just a few words can change everything.
Floyd
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 6:34 pm
Amen to that, Loren. To know that someone loves us and is thinking and praying for us is a boost from our Father. “Just a few words can change everything.” Very well said, brother. I like it. Thanks, Loren.
child of God
Monday, July 22, 2013 @ 7:12 pm
Hi Floyd,
Thank you for visiting me. 🙂
What a lovely post. I enjoyed reading about the special notes and your words brought back memories of my high school days.
Blessings,
<
Floyd
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 9:14 am
My pleasure. Simple words scribbled on small notes have such an impact on us. I wish I would have kept some of the notes from my school days. Good call. Thanks and blessings to you as well.
Lincoln Parks
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 4:04 am
This is so awesome that your daughters have that relationship. I know it must have been a great feeling for you guys reading those notes because it means that you have been doing a fantastic job with your children. Such a valuable lesson to learn today that no matter what your words and actions mean the world to your children. And it rubs off. I feel proud for your Floyd.
Floyd
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 9:16 am
It has more to do with my wife for sure, but it’s my gift to be able to see it and be a part of it. It’s a wonderful family tradition and I know it’s going to be passed down. Thanks for the kind words, Lincoln. I appreciate how you and I relate!
Jay Cookingham
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 8:13 am
I’m an old softie… I have managed to save notes, cards, mementos of family life for over 30 years now. Do you have any space in your attic for a few boxes? 😉
Thanks for sharing you heart bro’!
Floyd
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 9:17 am
Sorry, Jay! We’re all out of space! My desk drawers are mostly full of notes and cards. When I clean house they are my priority. From one old softie to another… Thanks, brother.
Dan Black
Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 10:47 pm
My wife and myself have made it a point to keep every note that is personally important or valuable to us. Most of them have been from each other, when we look through them it lifts our spirits and reignites our love for each other. Great thoughts!
Floyd
Wednesday, July 24, 2013 @ 7:41 am
That’s great. Our words really do leave a trail of love… Great thoughts, Dan. Thanks.
Mary McLeary
Sunday, July 28, 2013 @ 5:58 pm
Words do count and the sweet ones usually count the most.
Floyd
Sunday, July 28, 2013 @ 6:39 pm
They certainly do and are indeed cherished. We probably don’t give enough sweet ones along the way. Something for me to ponder. Thanks, Mary. Always great to hear from you.
Betty Jo
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 2:22 pm
I promised I’d be back to read more of your posts. What I didn’t count on was spending so much time doing it. This post is precious and made me cry, which slowed me down a bit, but I also find myself reading every comment on your blog. I don’t normally do that. But, somehow you have the most interesting conversations here. This particular post, and the comments, reminded me so much of when my boys were younger, still home, in school and the notes I used to put in their lunch boxes. How precious are those little notes we write, and are written to us. I cherish every note and card my husband wrote to me too. He went home to be with Jesus, suddenly and unexpectedly, five years ago. There was no time for goodbyes. So, I truly know how important each spoken, and written word, is to and from a loved one. Not only the words, but the tactile touch of the penned imprint on the paper as one runs a finger across it; priceless! Thanks for inspiring the memories Floyd.
Floyd
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 3:31 pm
What a wonderful and Godly perspective you have, Betty Jo. I marvel at His children that endure the toughest parts of this life and do it with the grace and beauty of the One who gives us strength. It was three years ago May 13th that my dad was called home. You and my mom have similar perspectives and strength from God above. It brings a whole new meaning to “bitter/sweet.”
One of my wife’s most treasured notes from me was written on a torn off piece of paper bag. It was long before we had computers and I drew what I tried to make look like an artistic curved line that resembled a question mark with a squiggly tail under the words, “I love you.”
The things of the most value God has designed to not be measurable in time or space… they can only be measured in our hearts. And our Father has made his children’s hearts grand with grace and beauty where He resides. I so appreciate you sharing what is in yours here… it helps expand the boundaries of all of our hearts. God bless you, sister.