Monday, September 08, 2008

Two Generous Spirits

First thing this morning, I received a surprise that blew my mind and overflowed my heart with joy. To honor the two generous spirits responsible for this blessing, I thought I would share the original e-mail containing the news and the response I sent back to them just moments ago. These two messages say it all (except for specific figures, which I have removed in the name of good taste).

Original Message

Good morning, Dave,

Perry will be depositing $x into your checking account today or tomorrow. This is a gift from us. We just felt like blessing you and Whit for your academic achievements. Love you!

Susan


Response
WOW! Thanks to both of you! That is a tremendous gift. The gift of $x you two gave me [two weeks ago] has already proved to be a great blessing in helping me cover my expenses. You can easily imagine how this substantially larger gift will do considerably more than help me make ends meet over the next several months. Your loving gesture has filled my heart with warmth and my eyes with tears.

I don't know what else to say other than that whatever academic success I have had would never have been possible without Susan and Perry Christian. Not only did you provide me with 6 years of excellent education in private schools, but I have come to depend on your guidance and hospitality throughout my higher education. And you did it all without ever being obligated to do any of it. I am proud to claim both of you as my parents. This substantial, monetary gift is but a visible symbol of the enormous amounts of love, help, and wisdom both of you have freely given me over the last 14 years. I hope I have been able to provide you with something of comparable worth in return, both up till now and in the future.

Much, much love,
Dave