The other end of giving

I have always been a person that loves giving  to others. Nothing makes me happier than the joy a small token of appreciation brings to friends and family. With many changes and challenges that have occurred for us this past year my husband and I have had the opportunity to be on the receiving end of many gifts.  
Both my husband and I have received gifts in the past for holidays, birthdays or just because, but this year was different because not only were we more often than not on the receiving end but in addition to regular gifts we were also given the gift of patience and understanding, compassion and empathy, a helping hand, prayers and love.
The other end of giving is quite humbling and honestly a bit difficult to get used to. As a giver I would get a great feeling whether I was gifting a material gift or providing assistance to someone in need, the type of feeling a Hero must get when saving the world.
As a receiver the idea that someone thought enough of me to bestow a gift is heartwarming. To receive a gift when in need is altogether a different feeling. Receiving, the other end of giving, especially when in need can be a bit overwhelming because not only does it give you a glimpse of the wonderful side of humanity but also reflects your own humility.
For example, when we moved into our new home my husband had not been feeling well. Armed with this knowledge several members of our church family offered and provided assistance, They helped me load and unload trailers full of household goods in high temperatures without complaint. These same folks gifted us with countless prayers during and after my husbands hospitalizations.
Other examples, are the plate of cookies our neighbor across the street brought to welcome us and when our neighbor to the south, without a word, zoomed over on tractor equipment to mow after noticing my husband using the lawn tractor to mow down weeds in the field. I was humbled yet again when I started a new job my coworkers graciously gifted me their patience while I learned the ropes and at the same gave me the gift of acceptance as they accepted me  into their work family.
Finally, the countless hours of assistance feeding animals and tending to chores when we were unable was undoubtably fueled by the gift of love.   
The actions of so many that gave of themselves, their time, their love and support has truly made the other end of giving a wonderful experience. I now realize that although accepting assistance when you are an independent individual may be difficult at first, it allows you to gain the gift of appreciation for the wonderful people in your life and that is the best gift of all.