How many of you enjoy surprises?
I’m not talking about the kind of surprise that alters our lives by way of natural calamities, news of a life-threatening condition, or a devastating event. Unfortunately, those unwelcoming surprises can traumatize us for years and sometimes a lifetime.
I’m asking about the good surprises. The one that lifts our spirits, put us in a happy space and may even alter the future of our lives.
One of the greatest surprises of my life happened at my 60th birthday party. (I planned my own party because I didn’t want a surprise.) My husband, Jonas, agreed to allow me to plan my party but what I didn’t know was that he had a surprise planned for me during the party.
It was a wonderful evening with neighbors, friends, business partners, and family. I had reached my sixth decade and I was extremely grateful to have reached that mile marker in my life.
I had experienced the heights of success and the lows of depression and that evening I was completely overwhelmed by the love of family and friends. I was grateful for Gods amazing faithfulness to me in my journey.
About an hour into the party I was asked to have a seat and enjoy a video featuring birthday wishes from some of my friends that couldn’t make it to the party. One of the clips came from one of my favorite musicians and dear friends of mine, Reggie and Ladye Love Smith.
I was overwhelmed by the song they were singing on the video when suddenly I heard them singing not only on the screen but right in my ears.
They walked up behind me singing a beautiful song. I was in total shock! I was nearly beside myself with happiness.
A good surprise is hard to describe because of the depth of happiness it brings. Even as I write this story I still feel the happiness of that moment.
That surprise did not alter my life in any way, but it sure created a memory that I will never forget. You can relive a good surprise and in that way, it’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Recently, I planned a birthday surprise for our youngest granddaughter, Mia. Her sister, Trinity, recently went off to college in a different state and Mia missed her deeply.
I decided to fly Trinity home for a very short weekend birthday surprise. Mia and I pulled up to the curb at arrivals. She had no clue what was happening. She never saw Trinity until she was opening the door of my car.
It was pure delight! Giggles, laughter, Koala bear hugs and screams all in one!
My mission was accomplished. My birthday surprise was perfect and complete. At that moment I thought I would explode with happiness!
Seeing the two of them enjoying each other was a moment I will never forget.
I knew for a moment Mia’s little heart was comforted and my heart had another glimpse into the beauty of what a simple surprise can do.
These are the types of surprises I’m talking about! Do you like them?
When was the last time you thought of a way to surprise a loved one and create a joy-filled memory that will last a lifetime? Giving someone joy and happiness is always worth it!
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