The Gift of the Magi

This short story was published in December 1905 by the writer William Sydney Porter, who wrote under the pen name O. Henry.
The story is set in the same era in New York. I’m sure everyone knows the story of how the loving couple, Della and James, sell their most valued possessions to buy Christmas gifts for each other.

At the end of the story, O. Henry writes:
“The magi, as you know, were wise men—wonderfully wise men—who brought gifts to the Baby in the manger. They invented the art of giving Christmas presents. Being wise, their gifts were no doubt wise ones, possibly bearing the privilege of exchange in case of duplication. And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house.”

I read this short story many years ago. A friend of mine was reading it recently, so I reread it, and it made me reflect: What are gifts? I believe we humans have become too materialistic to truly appreciate acts of kindness or even simple objects, like a beautiful flower.

Though our lives are fleeting, we can leave behind eternal good thoughts. By performing kind deeds and spreading positive words and ideas, we can gift the coming generations and those around us, cheer and goodwill.

In my opinion, the company of good people—whether friends, relatives, or family—keeps us in good spirits and, in turn, in good health. There is no greater gift than a sound body and mind.

Here’s to positivity and fun!


Merry Christmas!