Honoring Mom & Celebrating Dee: A Family in Pictures

Hi, and welcome to another post in Grace Across Borders.

In this post, I want to honor our dog Dee through pictures. He gives so much love to this family and asks for very little in return.

His quiet generosity and loyalty serve as a reminder of what it means to give without expectation—setting the tone for today’s reflection on paying it forward.

Biblical Story: Barnabas

In Acts 4:36–37, we meet Barnabas, whose name means “Son of Encouragement.”

Barnabas sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles to help those in need.

His generosity was not only an act of giving but also a demonstration of care and support for the early Christian community.

Barnabas’s actions remind us that paying it forward is not limited to family or close friends; it is an outward expression of love, trust, and faith in God’s provision.

Folklore Story: Anansi and the Box of Wisdom

In one popular Jamaican folktale, Anansi the spider was given a box of all the world’s wisdom.

Wanting to keep it for himself, he tried to hide it atop a tall tree.

Yet, in the attempt to hoard wisdom, he discovered that some of it fell into the hands of others.

The more it fell,

the more they thanked him,

the smarter the world got,

the happier he felt.

Eventually, he realized that wisdom—and goodness—cannot be contained; it is meant to be shared and benefits everyone who receives it.

This story echoes the idea that generosity multiplies, not diminishes, the giver’s own joy and purpose.

Reflection: Family Tradition of Giving

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the power of generosity through my mother and grandmother.

When my mother moved from St. Thomas to Portmore, St. Catherine, she often received packages and provisions from my grandmother, who wanted to ensure she had everything she needed to take care of herself and her growing family.

My mother’s giving spirit didn’t stop at family—she gives freely to friends, co-workers, neighbors, and her church community, showing that true giving knows no boundaries.

Since moving away from New York, I have experienced the comfort of her care through boxes sent with Jamaican treats, such as oxtail, goat, mangoes, and even simple snacks like excelsior water crackers.

These gestures are more than gifts—they are expressions of love and legacy, demonstrating that giving is not about recognition but about fulfilling a calling to support and care for others.

The act of giving has shaped me profoundly.

My mother’s example inspires me to continue the tradition of paying it forward, offering encouragement and assistance wherever it is needed.

Even when gratitude is not expressed, her unwavering generosity reminds me that the impact of giving often extends far beyond what we see.

Thanks also to the friends and family who have sent care packages from far and wide, or added to Mom’s packages, to remind us that you care. We appreciate you too!

Giving Honors God

When we give generously and without expectation, we honor God because we reflect His character—His love, provision, and care for others.

Just as Barnabas shared his resources in Acts 4:36–37, giving freely demonstrates trust in God’s provision and obedience to His commands.

Anansi’s story reminds us that goodness multiplies when shared, echoing the way God’s blessings are meant to flow outward.

My mother’s example, and even Dee’s quiet love, show that giving brings life, encouragement, and joy—not only to the receiver but also to the giver.

Through acts of generosity, we participate in God’s work and reflect His grace in tangible ways.

I almost forgot why I gave, why I was the way I am.

Thank God for these reminders.

What Does Giving Mean to You?

As I reflect on these stories, I’m reminded that generosity and encouragement are not just abstract ideas, but ways of life.

Think about what this looks like in your own life.

How can you implement acts of giving, continue habits of kindness, or reignite a spirit of generosity as God leads you?

Remember that each small act, offered with love and faith, participates in God’s cycle of grace, multiplying blessings beyond what we can see.

If it blessed you, share, like, comment, and subscribe. Do not be like Anasi and hide the blessing.

Love you always mom!