The Ultimate Gift
As our children plan for our family cruise to Alaska, it brings back memories of a similar trip my husband and I took many years ago. When we boarded the cruise ship in Vancouver that evening, there was a joyful sense of excitement among the guests. But as soon as the ship ventured into open sea, a severe storm hit unexpectedly. We were all advised to stay in our cabins, and throughout the night, the ship was tossed by the storm, leaving everyone feeling quite seasick.
Despite the discomfort, early the next morning, I decided to leave the cabin. I took the elevator up to the top floor, where the buffet breakfast was open and the restaurant was almost empty.
A middle-aged lady was sitting alone, so I decided to join her. Below is the story she told me.
“This is my first cruise, and it may also be my last. I have cancer and a limited lifespan. The trip was a gift from a daughter, who had promised to take her mom on a cruise. Unfortunately, her mom passed away before the trip, so she wants to give to a cancer patient instead. That is me. I need to fully enjoy this trip so I can share the experience with her mom in heaven.“
Suddenly, I felt completely better. The touching gift from the daughter warmed my heart. Although I hadn’t seen the lady throughout the cruise, but her story stayed with me and inspired me to become more like the giver.
