The Perfect Last-Minute Gift Idea

Click above to visit the Story People website

by Skip Cohen

​It's Sunday, and if you've followed me for even the shortest time, you already know I never talk about business when I write Reflections. I also throw caution to the wind when it comes to topics the "experts" say you should never write about. Sunday is my day to get more personal; today is no exception.

I want to preface today's post by admitting that I'm a hopeless romantic. I also get a little sappy, especially around the holidays. Fitting right in with that trait, I'm a huge fan of the Story People. I'm sure most of you have seen them, but have you been on their website?

Please keep in mind that I'm just a fan and NOT paid or endorsed in any way by this company. But like those times when you find just the right message in a greeting card, the Story People always come through.

Sheila and I have been fans since we bought our first one in Laguna, CA, sixteen years ago. Later, discovering their online presence, I started adding to the collection. Each message has resonated with something special in how I feel about our life together and shares a thought that normally would be hard to express.

Here's a perfect example: In March, Sheila's brother Randy had a brain aneurysm blow. After surgery and months of rehab, he seemed to be improving and getting better, but passed away in September.

​There are no words to describe the feeling of being helpless for somebody you care about when there's nothing you can really do to help except be there. I wanted to remind her that I'm so proud she's a warrior and that I've always got her back. Once again, the Story People came through. I added another one to our collection:

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I see that you are going through a rough time. We have all known such times,
when the sky and ground were turned around. No moon to guide us through the dark wood.
I see how bravely you take one step after the other and I hold my lantern high, here at the edge of the forest.
I am you witness, I am your friend.
The journey is yours alone, but you are not alone.

It's hopefully been a busy holiday season, and you've probably been short on time to shop for the people you care the most about. This is where The Story People come to the rescue! They have literally hundreds of gift ideas, large and small, that express those feelings that are so often difficult to share. From congratulations to love to condolences and everything in between, they've got us all covered.

Wishing everybody an incredible day ahead. Take the time to think about those special people in your life and how much they give you every day. Their presence is a big part of who you are, and it's great to remind them you'd be a little lost without them. Don't be afraid to get sappy - from spouses to other family members to great friends - let them know how much you love having them in your life. That's also where those eleven-second therapeutic hugs always come in! 

Happy Sunday...or Monday if you're on the other side of the world.