{The Gift of Exchange}

How much of life do we exchange for each other? 

As I become more aware of the simplicity that is sprinkled throughout our lives, I’m beginning to see patterns and themes each week.  I try to be aware of similar happenings and thoughts, which is how I often piece together my writing topics.

Lately, I’ve been feeling extremely overwhelmed and encouraged by the amazing community of friends around me.  This past weekend, I had the opportunity to spend a night with seven amazing women at Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood.   One of our dear friends, Anna, brought us together to help celebrate her six year wedding anniversary and to talk about the love that we’ve experienced in our own lives.  How memorable!

While I was reminded about the importance of friendships and love, I was also encouraged by the sharing and exchanges that took place.  Anna had a wonderful idea of turning the “white elephant” game into an eco-friendly gift giving event.  She has recently begun taking steps to simplify her home and the materials in her life, and as a result, found several items that she wanted to share with us.  So, we each went around the circle and picked a bag from the table.  We were given the chance to open it and decide if it was something we liked or needed.  It was also important that Anna let us know that it was perfectly fine if we saw nothing we wanted to bring home.  I ended up with a beautiful bright green candle dish, which found a home in one of our bathrooms that was thirsty for color.  And the best part; it was free!

Another excellent idea that Anna included in her invitation was a clothes exchange.  Often referred to as a “Naked Ladies Party” , we were asked to bring any items that we no longer liked or fit into.  And, although I had recently been part of a summer garage sale, I was surprised to find myself easily taking things from my closet and tossing them into the giveaway bag.  After the exchange, I felt like I walked away with a brand new wardrobe!  One of the girls even works at Nike, so in a tiny way, I felt as if I won the lottery by finding several new workout pants and shirts.  Ladies, if you have never done this with your girlfriends, this is a must, annual event!  Clothes, shoes, meals, books, furniture, household items, music lessons, babysitting.  The options are vast!

In the world of exchange, another valuable option is trading of services.  As I look around, I see many talents and passions that people in our life encompass.  For instance, Heather, one of the sweet girls in our church community group, is an incredible hair stylist.  Recently, I asked if she would be open and willing to exchange a trim for an organizing session.  Honestly, I felt a bit nervous to pose such a question, but her quick response only helped encourage my newfound spirit of community exchange.  And, after conversations with her, I realize that so many of us are afraid to ask for the help that we need.  As a result of our talking, we ended up discovering another exchange!  A vacation townhome for babysitting!  Marvelous! 

While I understand that many people today do not have the time or energy to exchange talents, I do know that this type of giving and taking will cause a ripple effect of positive change and needs awareness.  Can you imagine a neighborhood of strangers coming together for this type of exchange?  Think of the support, understanding, and compassion that might come through such agreements.  Not to mention, money saved!

This type of mindset is eco-friendly and solicitous.  The communication needs to be open and authentic however, as to not take advantage of another person’s heart to give.  Honestly, I truthfully believe that God intended for us to live in this way.

 

“The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.”

~Henry David Thoreau          

 

How have you recently practiced the gift of exchange in your life?  What passions and talents might you offer to those around you?