"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
Actually, it wasn't my original idea, but God knew what would be good medicine for me. He put it in the heart of a dear friend to bless me with, no, not a tea party, but to delight me with a gift of tea cups! And not just any tea cups, but exquisite, delicate, elegant, dainty antique china tea cups that belonged to her mother! Since my dear friend is in her mid-eighties, that makes these beautiful cups even more precious.
As you can see, each cup is unique and lovely. Several are fine bone china from England, and two were made in Occupied Japan, and one was made in Germany in the U.S. Zone, which I had never heard of until today. It was apparently made in post World War II, from 1945-1950.
But it is not the country of their origin or the age or quality of the china that makes them special to me. What makes them a gift to be treasured is that it came from dear friends who are in the process of downsizing from their home to an "independent living" apartment. As I opened the box and unwrapped each piece, I erupted into "oohs" and "aahs" and squeals of delight. I couldn't wait to call her and thank her and that is when she told me that they had belonged to her mother and because she would not have a place to keep them in her new home, she knew that I would enjoy and appreciate them...and she hoped they would lift my spirits today.
She was certainly right about that. Yesterday I had a "broken spirit" that was drying up my bones.
Today I have a "merry heart", which is truly "good medicine".
Thank you, Lord, for knowing what I needed today. And thank you sweet friend, for being the vessel of love through whom God chose to bring some merriment into my heart today. You are a blessing! And yes, I will definitely enjoy and appreciate this wonderful gift.
Thoughts to ponder:
What special gifts have you received that lifted your spirits during a difficult time?
Have you ever been the one to give a gift to someone to cheer them up?
How did it feel to receive such a gift?
How did it feel to give such a gift?
How has God ministered to you when you needed it most?
Is there someone you know who might need a gift of encouragement today? It doesn't have to be an expensive or precious family heirloom. Perhaps a gift of your time. A note to let them know you are thinking of them. A phone call. A gift from your garden or kitchen. A special book that helped you during a difficult time.
No gift is too small or insignificant when it is given with love.
You are the ideal person to ooohh and aahhh over the cups and care for them tenderly, and that was the ideal moment for you to receive them. Friends are flowers in the garden of our life.
ReplyDeleteYes, yes, yes! I love the flower garden of friends God has provided for me, both here in the flesh, and here in cyberspace. You are all wonderfully precious to me! Thank you for being one of those lovely flowers.
DeleteI am so blessed by this dear lady's precious gift to you, Pam. What a treasure! I know how things like that can truly minister to our hearts and souls...sweet reminders of how much we are loved by HIM!
ReplyDeleteYes, isn't it though? A "sweet reminder of how much we are loved by Him!" I do love that about God...He knows exactly what will make us smile in the midst of tears. I do love being loved by Him. Thank you, and have a blessed and marvelous day my friend.
DeleteHi Pamela,
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful gift from your thoughtful friend! Each teacup truly is a treasure and I'm so happy you shared them with us. God in His goodness, always knows when we need a pick-me-up and He did so through your friend. If you would like to link this post up at my tea party, the party is below the HOME party. Also, on Monday, the 17th, I will be hosting a Spring tea party featuring A Bird Lover's Tea. Your little birdie teacup is perfect and I invite you to join me for that. Thank you for your visit and have a delightful day.
Blessings,
Sandi
Thank you Sandi. I knew you would appreciate the cups and the spirit in which they were given. Such a treasure! Thank you for the link for the tea party...and the reminder about the Bird Lover's Tea party. That should be fun...I may have to prepare for that one! Have a blessed day my friend.
DeleteEvery time I read your blog, it brings me to a place in my heart reserved for His presence. I like the tea cup collection but I love what it represents more. Your precious friend shared a part of herself with you and isn't that what a cup of tea is for? Fellowship, whether with an earthly friend or the "friend that sticketh closer than a brother." I have always thought it would be a wonderful idea to have a basket ready by the door that included a portable tea set of eclectic cups and saucers to take when visiting home-bound friends whether at home, hospitals, or nursing homes. This post has stirred that up in me and I just may have to do that sooner rather than later. Thanks for being an inspiration even in the midst of your pain!
ReplyDeleteI am sorry, Kim, that I did not see your reply until now! I guess I've been busy and forgot to check back...and it is such a delightful response...Thank you! I am happy that this message inspired you to bring some joy into others' lives as well. That is a great idea! I know others will be blessed by it! May you be blessed today as well! Your thoughts have lifted my spirits!
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