little gifts

Beth's hands.  Photographed with Nikon D300, 60mm lens.

Yesterday, I went to my friend Beth's house, to take a few photographs for her book.  I have to admit that I did not go over there in the best frame of mind:  this week I've been very overwhelmed with things I have yet to do that haven't been completed, and coupled with some news I received two days ago -- good news, but news which will require even more responsibility of me -- I walked into Beth's house a completely jangled nerve.

But Beth is one of those truly calming spirits, and within minutes, my stress melted away.  She made me a huge cup of tea -- from loose tea leaves, none of this teabag nonsense -- and cut me a slice of warm banana bread, which, judging from the heady scent of baking that was still in the air in her home, I knew was fresh from the oven.  We sat and talked, I shared what was going on my life, and she listened closely.  She cheered me on, encouraged me, and gave me advice.  And by the time I picked up my camera, my outlook on life had completely changed.

It was such a lovely reminder:  the little things we do for people can have such an impact on their spirits, can't they?  I think I'm going to have to pay it forward soon ...

... anyway, here's hoping someone gives you the gift of themselves this weekend.  And for those of you who are really good at this sort of thing, please keep it up:  it makes a huge difference.

Have a great weekend, everyone.

Song:  Come along with me, as performed by Lalah Hathaway and Joe Sample