Tears trickle down my face as I set the table for Thanksgiving, brought on by a pair of salt cellars. Tears of grief are eventually replaced with a deep gratitude for the gift of a beautiful friendship.
My dearest friend happened to be a really good gift-giver. Her gifts were always impeccably wrapped in handmade paper and knotted with her signature thick satin ribbon. Who wouldn’t be excited to open one of her treasures? The treasures that day happened to be the silver salt cellars from a South Carolina antiques shop. Her joy at finding and presenting the perfect gift was evident in her gleaming smile.
I would say that we both enjoyed these gift exchanges. Our shared interests made thinking of the perfect gift pretty easy. Favorites were books, art, flowers, and little trinkets with a story – always presented in packaging that may have cost more than the actual gift. Thoughtfulness was key and the pleasure really came more to the giver than to the receiver.
As I fill those salt cellars for the holidays my heart is full. She is the gift. I am so thankful that she continues to touch my life in unexpected ways. I am constantly reminded of her delightfulness, someone who found joy in making others happy.
So do people live on in objects?
I often think about that, especially when selecting pieces for others. How meaningful are the things that surround us? What are those objects that touch our hearts?
This holiday season, I wish all of you the peace and joy that sometimes eludes us during this season. And I remind you to give with the understanding that your thoughtfulness is the greatest commodity of all.
For your consideration I have assembled a few of my favorite sources for home décor, keeping in mind that rooms are more soulful when they house pieces that are handmade and alive.