The precious item is purchased

with money

procured by our

sacrifice of time.

It’s a gift, because we gave of ourselves, to give it to another.

We secure it with

padding, and cushion

it with smiles, hoping

to get one back.

Then we place it into a container

with a squared, wrap-able edge.

We cut out the perfect piece,

fold and tuck it in

all the right

creases and lines.

The present looks perfect—ly concealed beneath the pristine paper.

Then the offering is given,

the meticulous wrapping

shredded in mere

seconds.

And the recipient looks up

into the eyes of the giver…..