Gifts From a Spirit

"What do you mean?" she asked. "I know I'm blessed. You showed me how to find love and not wait. I found Tom and I couldn't be happier."

"You will see in due time," he answered. "You will see."

"See what?" she cried.

"Be patient, my child. Very soon, you will see." He looked down to her. "I must go now. I hear a cry in the darkness, much sadness. But from sadness, happiness will prosper. You have found that, have you not?"

"Yes, I have and I have you to thank for it."

"It was always within you, my child. Now, go back to your husband and love him."

"I will." Julie looked down. When she looked up, her eyes were shiny with tears. "I'll never forget you," she whispered.

"I will always be with you," he answered.

And then he was gone.

Julie looked at the darkness that replaced his vision and was sad. She truly hoped what he said wasn't true and that he would return and visit someday. She could only hope.

She turned and began to walk back to her bedroom when she remembered and stopped. Julie turned around and went back to the tree and started to check its branches for a new ornament. It took her a few seconds, but when she found it, she burst into tears.

It was a baby cradle.