The holidays are here and everyone is trying to figure out what’s the best gift they can get for their loved ones. What will they appreciate the most?
While material gifts are wonderful, I find the gifts that mean the most to me are the ones that come from the heart. We were so lucky that our son Matt made sure we knew how much he loved us. It was a beautiful gift he gave us, it always made us feel good but now that he is gone, it also brings us great comfort. He did it regularly, sometimes shouting it out publicly, sometimes in funny or touching ways. When I say we, I mean his dad, his brother and I.
For example, on cards to his dad, Matt said, “Happy Birthday Dad, thank you for raising me the way you did. All the love in the world. Or the one that said, “Happy Father’s Day Dad, I love you with all my heart.”
Matt declared his love for his younger brother, Brian, on Facebook, saying, “I love my brother more than chipotle and the NBA playoffs combined. But seriously, I love you man, you’re my best friend and one of the biggest sources of energy and love in my life.”
And the email to me that said, “Happy Birthday Mom, I love you more than pretty much anyone in the world.” Or the one that said, “Hi Mom, I was thinking about you and just want to say I love you.” For no particular occasion.
My point is, this is an easy gift to give to the people you love. Be sure you tell them all the time how much you love them. Not just I love you. Don’t be afraid to show your emotions, that makes it so much more meaningful. Don’t assume they already know it. Say it out loud or write it down and send it to them. It will make them feel good even if they know it, it’s really so important.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to tell someone how much they mean to you. Remember, life is really just about loving and being loved.
As always, I’d appreciate it if you would help me get the word out about the Matt Kurtz Kindness Award of $250 (nominate someone who inspires you) and the Matt Kurtz Kindness Grant of $250 (submit an act of kindness you would do with $250).
Jackie, that was beautiful. I think that it is very important to tell the people in our lives how much they mean to us. The picture of Matt with Santa put an ear to ear smile on my face.
I love that picture too. That was so Matt! Keep spreading the love.
A wonderful post Jackie. You have greatly enhanced Matt to me by adding depth and beautiful colors. I thank you for that.
Thank you. I appreciate your comment so much.
Jackie that was so beautiful said and as his grandmother my heart is full also. Pop and I loved him so much I miss all my family who have left us.
I’m all about experiences rather than gifts. TIme spent with loved ones is key, that’s what they will remember not what you bought for them. Love love love the picture of Matt, it’s just how i think of him with that big beautiful smile. We are all learning from his thoughtfulness and love