A Perfectly Simple Gift

Shortly after she moved away, my friend Melissa sent me this magnet quote for my birthday. It hangs on the inspiration board above my desk, a constant reminder that:

1. Gifts don’t have to be expensive to be perfect.
The magnet cost less than $5 but it’s one of my favorite presents ever – thoughtful, relevant and a visual token of a friendship I treasure.

2. “Out of clutter find simplicity.”
My mantra these days. Plus, a handy reminder to keep my desk clean.

3. “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”
Most things worth doing are difficult. I know this, yet I continue to resist it. But the feeling that comes AFTER the goal is achieved / project is presented / tough conversation is had? Whether it’s accomplishment or merely relief, it’s always pretty dang great.

Thanks, Mr. Einstein. And Melissa.