A Lesson in Thanks"giving"

As the season approaches to begin thinking more about our blessings and the act of giving, I felt it was appropriate to begin to instill in Chloe a sense of humility and willingness to give. I asked Chloe what she was thankful for and she began to act silly and started to name objects/things that surrounded us (we were in the bathroom during bath time). Chloe said, "shower curtains, soap, lights, towels, toys, etc. I said, "Chloe, those are excellent things to be thankful for because many children do not have these things. We are very blessed to have everything that you just named." I began to explain to her that some children do not have toys. Chloe quickly responded, "I will give them some of my toys." She began to name all of the toys that she would give other children. Being uncertain whether or not she understood the full meaning of "give", I told her that when you give someone something, it is no longer yours and that you do not get what you have given them back. (However, I do believe, and have seen throughout my life, that when you give you will get much more in return... This lesson will come later!! ) Chloe stopped for what seemed like several minutes and thought long and hard about what I had said. Then she said, "Well, that's OK" and she began to name some of her favorite toys that she would put into her horsey bag and give to other children. What a lesson in humility for me... I am so thankful for my daughter and her willingness to give!!