Giving It Away: 40 Years Later

 

Today I donated and gifted my US Air Force issued duffle bag. I have owned it since November 1981, and it has sat neatly folded in numerous rooms of several of my homes. I offered it to family, but to be honest, no one wanted it and I certainly understand that. Yet, when I brought it and freely donated it to the thrift store where folks can buy and donate myriad items a grateful receiver encountered me. The gentleman said he would like to keep it for himself and then asked me, gently, “Did you serve?” I said, yes. He thanked me for my service, but he then asked me my name and if it was mine. I said, yes, again, with a tear or two welling up in my eyes. I was very touched that he was grateful to receive it. It has my name stenciled in white and I showed him where my name is stenciled. Several thoughts have entered my mind since this morning, and I want to share how this event has touched me.

First, it was amazing to encounter someone so grateful. Even more so, I was thankful that someone could use it. It is in good condition, and it has weathered the years well. He asked about the metal hooks and clip that are used to close the bag once it is full. Another man and I showed him how it works. Duffle bags were new to him. Most importantly, it just felt good to know that the old duffle bag still had life and it could be used. Most importantly, I did not want it to rot away on a shelf in my house. I am grateful that he can use it. Yay.

Second, I am going to give away “everything” one day. I do not have a death wish but I do know that we cannot take anything with us to heaven. So, this was a good lesson on “giving things away” for me. I feel blessed to have the memories of the old duffle bag while he has received something that he feels he can use.

Third, less is more. My son in law, Cooper, recently told me and complimented me on my home. He said, “Your place looks like a Google webpage.” That is high praise from good son in law, for sure. He said that my place looked very uncluttered, crisp and spacious, I think. I appreciated his heartfelt words. All this to say, less is more. Less clutter means crisper looking place, and I cannot keep things forever. Everything must go, as the super-duper salesperson shares on big sale days. All my stuff will be given away one day. I had the blessing of giving and receiving today. More is less and encountering a grateful receiver is a blessing beyond words and measure.