The importance of being present rather than just giving presents

My birthday and wedding anniversary this weekend provided the perfect opportunity to reflect on the power of being present in someones life. When you give or receive a present it is an opportunity not to show how much money you can spend on someone but how you really take time to show you understand the other person and connect with real meaning. It has meant a lot to me that Michael has taken the time to find a paperweight made by my favourite glass artist here in NZ, Peter Raos, More importantly it symbolises a story that has  a lot of meaning to Kirsten, Michael  and myself. The story of the man walking along the beach throwing back starfish one by one. When questioned he replied that if he can save just one it was worth it. I would like to think that in our life we work hard to make a difference to all those around us. In a world of materialism seeking meaning through really being present in the life of our loved one is the greatest gift of all.