"الهدية لا تتكون مما يتم القيام به أو تقديمه بل في نية المانح أو الفاعل"

The heart of the idea here is that the true value of a gift isn’t in the gift itself; it’s in the spirit behind it. It’s about the thoughtfulness and intention that the giver brings to the act of giving. It’s not the price tag or the grandiosity that counts but the genuine care and consideration motivating the gesture.

Consider this: this idea has been around in various cultures and philosophies for ages. Think about the story of the widow's mite from the Bible. In that story, a poor widow gives two small coins to the temple treasury. Although her offering is modest compared to the large sums given by the wealthy, Jesus remarks that she has given more than anyone else because she gave all she had. The essence is clear—her intention and the sacrifice she made are what mattered, not the amount.

Now, let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture a mother who’s worked late nights to knit a scarf for her child. The yarn might be inexpensive, and the scarf might not be perfect—maybe it’s a bit crooked, maybe the colors don’t quite match. But every stitch represents her love, her late-night efforts, her thoughts about keeping her child warm. Compare that to someone who buys a pricey designer scarf without much thought. The handmade scarf, with all its imperfections, is far more meaningful because of the love and intention behind it.

So, how can you apply this in your own life? The next time you’re thinking of giving a gift or doing something for someone, focus on the ‘why’ rather than the ‘what’. Ask yourself: What will make this person feel truly seen and appreciated? Sometimes, a heartfelt letter, a shared memory, or a small act of kindness can mean more than the most expensive item. It’s the sincerity that touches hearts.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend who’s going through a tough time. You want to cheer them up. You could buy them an expensive gadget, sure. But think about what they really need. Maybe they need someone to listen, a handwritten note expressing how much you value their friendship, or even just their favorite homemade cookies. These acts of kindness show you understand and care for them deeply.

Let me tell you a story. There was a guy named Tom who wanted to surprise his girlfriend, Jane, on their anniversary. Now, Tom didn’t have a lot of money. Instead of stressing over fancy dinners or expensive gifts, he decided to recreate their first date. He set up a picnic with homemade sandwiches, just like they had on that special day. He even remembered to bring along her favorite chocolate. Jane was over the moon—not because of the food or the setting—but because Tom remembered the little details and cherished their memories. It wasn’t about the money; it was about the love and thought he put into it.

So, next time you’re thinking of giving something, remember: it’s your intention that counts. Make it personal, make it thoughtful. That’s what turns an ordinary act into something extraordinary.