Pennies From Heaven -- Part Two

I'm not sure if you remember, but a little over a year ago, I wrote a post about Pennies. ◄

(not just) Penny Jar 

Namely, finding the small -- very inconsequential -- things of life and not only making them an intentional part of your life, but making them a gift.

To yourself.

These gifts are everywhere -- if we're willing to look past our own negative expectations.

Here's the jar today.

After a year of doing this, of not passing up a penny when I just happened to walked by one, or picked one up at my feet as I got out of the car, I've changed. Here's how:

1. Expansion: It didn't just stop with pennies, it became dimes and nickels and quarters. And then it became dollars. And then jewelry and keys! There were more gifts around than I thought. I began to find dollars and five dollar bills in the vintage clothing I sold at my Etsy shop. It became comical. My oldest would walk to his car after school and pick up dollars on the ground in front of his car, as if they were left there for him.

2. Everyone: This became more than just about me. I incited my two boys to jump  in on this little "game." I explained why I was doing this, that these little gifts from God were reminders that he cares, and reminders to trust Him (In God we Trust). And that we should watch for them. Fast forward to today, they're in on this more than me! My oldest comes home and tells me the change he found, my youngest throws in metal buttons and keys and quarters (He's really a crow. No. I'm serious. He loves shiny objects and keeps them. All. ) They are just as excited when they find a simple penny as I am. It's amazing in the day and age of video games and early maturing, that this little game has become a fun and memorable daily highlight of my boys'.

3. (Great) Expectations: When you want more, learn to expect more. This is how faith works. There are some days I don't find a penny and I'm actually sad, as if I missed out on something great. These simple pennies almost become like gold on the ground. A found penny can sometimes be the single greatest thing that happens on a day of missed appointments, or bad grades from the kids, or disappointment in relationships. It's that constant reminder that God is still there. And that he's still giving me good things when the world is crashing down around me.

Try it. I dare you. You make think I'm crazy now. But once you're looking and finding them, you'll see what I'm talking about. You'll see the gift in the simple that no one else even cares to look at. It's like complimenting someone when you don't feel like it. Or picking up that extra gift of favorite dessert for someone you love.

It all counts. Every gift, every word, every small gesture. And every penny counts, too. As a gift to yourself.

How can you possibly say no to that?

-HJS