The greatest gift you gave to me,
Was not one the world could see,
It was not made from the purest gold,
Or sparkling diamonds for me to hold.

It was not colorful gems set in a row,
Or valuable pearls that oysters grow,
It was a hug however slight,
Or a kiss in the darkness of night.

Three little words, “I love you”,
Meant more to me than presents do,
Expensive dresses and designer shoes,
Can't compare with my love for you.

You gave me a single rose,
And like its beauty our love grows,
The thoughtful things you so often do,
Make me want to be with you.

A kiss can make the world go round,
A simple hug lifts me from the ground,
These things are worth more than silver or gold,
And by your side, I want to grow old.
 © Gayle Davis

When I read this lovely insightful poem, it was as if Gayle had read my mind. But then I realized I don't have a monopoly on recognizing  what is golden and to be treasured in life and particularly in  our most intimate personal relationships.  Any woman with an ounce of common sense  who has been fortunate enough to  find the one with whom she wishes to share her life  will relate to her words just as I have done.

 So often when we are young  we are not always so  blessed with that common sense  and can be misled by the romance of the moment, only to  realize too late that glitz and fancy wrapping paper can too often  be deceiving.  Often the gift wrapping is far more lovely than the content. The  wisdom to recognize what is really of value  is frequently sadly missing when we make our choices in the midst of youthful infatuation. The very fortunate do find  that  level of contentment and happiness as they grow together and discover that the one they have chosen is truly their soul mate but for many  there is regret when the wrapping paper fades and the glitz begins to tarnish.

A level of communication which makes an affectionate glance across a crowded room  so much more gratifying than the most expensive gift you may ever have received is so precious when you know that glance says you are loved and that the one you share your life with  values and respects you with the same degree of certainty that you feel toward them. In sickness and in health, good times or bad, you know you are not alone and never will be so long as you live. Your best and truest friend is there and  would wish to be no where else.

Could there be any gift more to be treasured ?