It was a big box, but it was half full of beans. Canned beans. Baked beans. Bags of beans. The trouble was, I hardly ever use beans when I cook.

Because we are missionaries, we were given a box of food. The gift was well-meant, but we would barely use it.

At another time, I received another unexpected gift. Some ladies I did not know, but were from a church that invests in us, got together and had a shower for me. It wasn’t a bridal shower or a baby shower, but just a “love on our missionary” shower. After their party in my honor, they mailed all their gifts to me.

The first box gave a strong impression of cast-offs. The second box was thoughtful and intentional; with a pretty tee shirt and lotions and stationery.

Both boxes changed my way of giving to others. For food banks, I make sure I donate a variety of foods of what I like to eat. For other donations, I make sure my gifts are new or like new.