If my brother or sisters kept track of the favors we’ve done for each other, the meals we’ve shared, the hours we’ve babysat or the miles we’ve each logged with carpools, it would shock me.

My siblings are generous with their time and talent, but just recently I discovered just how generous my sister Kay is.

I was having dinner at my daughter Monique’s house when I turned to my mom and said, “I think this tray is mine.”

Our laughter caught Monique’s attention and when she found out the source she said, “No, when I took it from your house you said it was Aunt Kay’s. I tried to return it to her and she said, ‘Now why would I have bought that?’ Then she said that I could have it.”

I laughed even more and only later remembered the whole story.

Kay gave me a dessert, which I placed on my tray.

Monique’s husband enjoyed it so much that I sent the leftovers home with them.

I’m tempted not to correct the story because I prefer Monique thinking her beloved Aunt Kay gave her the tray. And I’m grateful for the whole experience because it’s prompted a new prayer for my family.

Acts 21:35 quotes Jesus as saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

I pray that the next generation serves selflessly and gives freely. May they realize that the oft-quoted maxim should be put into practice daily – the secret to living is giving.

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.