Gift

“If someone, regardless of the situations, stands by you and tries his best to understand what you’re going through even if you don’t speak, you’ll know you’ve got a friend.” One friend told me that just this afternoon. Without giving it much thought, I swept it behind my mind in seconds.

Later in the evening, my housemate came home with an (extremely advanced) birthday present for me. I have to say, very frankly, that gift did not mean anything to me. Anybody could have bought me a birthday present. Family members, teachers, secret Santa, even a stranger whom I have not met. It was just a birthday present. What’s the big deal?

It was the thoughts that she had that struck me. The thought that she actually paid attention to what I said (that I needed a new wallet because mine broke); I didn’t even stress on my point, it just came out of my mouth as a random complaint on a random day. The thought of her knowing I am so busy that I most likely would not have had the chance to get it for myself. The thought of her actually caring to know what I like and what I don’t. The thought of her thinking so far ahead because she was afraid that I will get one for myself if she was too slow to act. The thought of her just understanding what is going on with me and in me even if I haven’t been talking to her much these days. The thought of her even willing to spend time on such petty things. The thought of her being such an encourager when things get tough.

One might think, such small thoughts, anyone could have done that, no? Sadly, I know I could easily list out hundreds of people that I know who wouldn’t do that. But I am glad that I can list one who would, for me.  

P/S: To that friend, if you so happened to be reading this, know that your thoughtfulness is much appreciated by this tiny soul here, and also many others who have yet to express their gratitude to you! :)