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I can't say there was one gift that was the best I have ever received, because there are many that were great gifts. But the question brought to mind a little yellow flashlight, about 2 and a half inches long, a very thoughtful gift. It was given to me by my son when he was six year old. He is 21 now.

At his school, around Christmas time, the children can earn points for doing homework, helping out the teacher, making good grades etc. They then spend the points on little things they can give for Christmas. I think the idea was the kids to be able to buy for their family and feel as if they are Christmas shopping.

The little items that they buy aren't expensive. They probably aren't worth more than a dollar at best. Keep in mind, it's the thought that counts, and that is what made the little flashlight so precious.

In my job, I have to work nights. I do use a flashlight a lot. I remember complaining that my employer could provide a better light than what we had, and it would be ashame to buy one myself just to do my job. My son must have overheard this complaint. On Christmas day, I opened this little gift he had wrapped and it was the little yellow flashlight. He told me "I hope this is better than the one you have at work." I knew it wouldn't be, but I told him it would be the perfect flashlight.

I let him see me carry it to work every day, for six years.I had used it for close up reading of paper work, instead of turning on a room light or car dome light. When it finally broke, and couldn't be used any longer, we retired it.

It was the thought he put into picking that out for me and his reason, made it so special. Just reliving it brings a tears to my eyes.

Learn more about this author, Charles W Straw.
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