The last few years I have been moved to tears on many occasions by the surprising presents from friends that live far and that I haven’t seen for many years or we’ve never met in person.  Their gesture was even more touching because it was unexpected and so much thoughtful.  I also embraced my friends with loving presents and I honestly hope they loved them.

Thinking gratefully of these gifts, a smile started to sneak on my face, as I realised more and more how our way of showing appreciation, friendship and love resembles the classic short story by O. Henry “The Gift of the Magi”.  We are approaching Christmas and now I wish to share with you the stories of gifts from my friends from far and away, from people I knew from long ago and people I only know from recently and I never met…  As I have discovered, a “friend” is a very long-drawn-out concept and always demands the presence of care and compassion.