Tintin and Snowy were always going to leave. Partially as a thank-you, more importantly, as a gift of friendship. In any event, it was a privilege to have a front-row seat during their creation. As the two works of art came together, stich by stich, I wondered about their future. Would their creator be able to let go? How would they be received in their new home? The story was unwritten and uncertain.
Life comes with teaching moments. Divinity uses whatever is unfolding at the moment as a canvas to reveal insights, reminders, and opportunities. Each whisper is an opportunity for learning and growth.
Gifting comes at a cost. It is easy to forget this part of the gift when one is on the receiving in. In this case, it the costs included an investment in time and the use of creative energies. It also included the challenges and dynamics of shipping, etc. Finally, at least in my case, I had formed an attachment to Tintin and Snowy. It was hard for me to let them go, I can only imagine what it was like for their creator.
Giving is not the same as abandonment. It is an intentional act of freedom. Even with the risk of what will happen in the future, the act of giving is a strong, positive, and intentional act. In this case, a statement of thankfulness, friendship, and care.
Receiving a gift includes accepting the responsibility for what follows. As important as the future is, it does not change what the giver has and is doing. Old words resonate; “So, what if, in the course of doing that, some of those Jews abandoned their post? God didn’t abandon them. Do you think their faithlessness cancels out his faithfulness?” (Romans 3.3). The creator and giver roles can never be taken away by the future. The future is an opportunity for the receiver to continue the story.
I know Tintin and Snowy are doing well in their new home. In remembering them with a warm heart, I rediscover the gifts I have received.
