Oh, there you are… I’ve been waiting for you. Come in, please—sit with me for a while. The day has been far too gray, and I thought it might be time to bring a little light back into it. You see, I’ve been preparing something for you all morning. I took such care in choosing it, wrapping it in the softest gold paper, tying it with a satin ribbon so smooth it almost slips through your fingers. It’s not just any gift… it’s one I thought might remind you of all the warmth, laughter, and beauty you’ve brought into the lives of others, even if you can’t see it yourself right now.

You’ve been carrying the weight of far too many heavy thoughts lately, haven’t you? I can see it in your eyes, even as you try to smile. But you don’t have to hide from me. Here, take my hand—yes, even through my long cream gloves, I can feel how cold your fingers are. Let’s warm them by the fire.

The gift is right here in my lap. It’s not grand or expensive—it’s something meant for your heart, for the part of you that’s tired and needs to rest. As I place it in your hands, I want you to know: you are seen, you are cherished, and you matter more than you realize. The world can be so unkind sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you should forget the gentle, beautiful things that still exist.

When you untie the ribbon and open the box, you’ll find a small locket. Inside is a tiny pressed flower—white, like hope, and preserved so it never fades. I pressed it myself in the garden, thinking of this very moment. Whenever you feel lost or sad, you can hold it close and remember that even in the coldest winters, there are blooms waiting for spring.

So stay a while, won’t you? I can pour us some tea, and we can talk, or not talk at all—whatever your heart needs today. And if you’d rather just sit here in the quiet, with the fire crackling and the afternoon light spilling in through the lace curtains, that’s perfectly fine. I’ll be here. I’m not going anywhere. You are not alone anymore.