The English language is alive. It is constantly changing, adding words, shifting meanings. Like a pre-pubescent child, it can be clumsy or unexpectedly lovely.
Not so long ago “friend” was a noun. These days it can be a verb, as in “to friend” someone on Facebook. The meaning is diluted, too; now we have “friends” that we truly do not know.
Some word transformations owe their alterations to “texting.” The word “text” also began its life as a noun, but recently became a verb. The practice of texting has spawned a contemporary vocabulary and new-world spelling.
The Dominican nuns, who were my grammar school teachers, would have their heads spin around in their habits to see the language so mutilated. Of course, modern nuns would not, since most today do not wear habits, and very likely understand the lingo of texting. Alas, time marches on. These days, the rules of conjugation have my head spinning.
“Gift” is one of those words that is morphing, as well. It is a common noun. Additionally, it may be used as an adjective such as describing someone as a “gifted” writer or painter. A few years ago “gifted” evolved into a verb. We began hearing that something had been “gifted,” instead of “given” to another.
This time of year, gifts are much on our minds. We want so much to be generous. It is the season to thank those who have opened their hearts to us. But, times are tough. Never have so many people been out of work. Never have the number of bankruptcies and foreclosures been so high. ‘Tis the season to think of unconventional gifts.
Of course, those with “gifts” for cooking, or art, or other desirable skills can present their friends with original creations. They can give something handmade, or offer their time and expertise. Not all gifts can be easily wrapped.
What about those of us who think we have nothing desirable? Maybe, like the little drummer boy in the Christmas song, we can come up with a totally original idea.
My friend, Connie Shepard and her husband, Darrell, have done just that. Darrell is a hunter who bags more deer in a season than they can possibly eat. They bring venison to the hungry animals at Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary. What a great idea! I suppose you could say they are “shepherds” to some of God’s creatures.
I often mention my dear friend, John D. He is a talented writer and poet who may give someone a poem penned just for them. However, he is also very generous with his time. He tutors would-be authors, offering mentoring and advice that is free, yet priceless.
Our community has a wealth of volunteers. One is Brenda Caradine and her staff of Tennessee Williams wunderkinds. The actors and production crew bring quality theater to Columbus and the Golden Triangle for all to enjoy. She is a friend to many who may not even know her.
This list could be as endless as a child’s letter to Santa. There are so many more who give than I will ever know. But, my theme is to think of non-traditional “gifting,” and, like the little boy in the song, to march to the beat of our own drummer. The recipient may be someone that you do not really know. They may be just a person (or an animal) who needs exactly what you have to offer. When we give to the universe, we are giving to everyone.
Merry Christmas to all my readers. Thanks for “friending” me and “gifting” me with your kind comments!
Adele Elliott, a New Orleans native, moved to Columbus after Hurricane Katrina.
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