Jamie Reidy shares the story of Bryan Martin, who bough his daughter her high school graduation present 13-years early.
The gift — a copy of “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” – has a cash value of less than $20, but to his daughter Brenna, it was “truly priceless.” That’s because inside, threaded among the passages of Dr. Seuss’s well-known rhymes, were comments and compliments from every adult who has taught Brenna at school, starting with her kindergarten teachers.
I marvel at Mr. Martin’s forethought, along with his dutiful updating of the book each year. Obviously, Brenna loved the gift, too.
Brenna’s reaction to the gift didn’t stop with graduation-day tears. She was so moved by the book that she posted the story online and added a link on Reddit, where the gift has attracted plenty of attention, not least from parents-to-be and parents of young kids who say they plan to follow Brenna’s dad’s example. One parent evenposted about starting a similar project earlier this year.
Sure, a car would’ve made a bigger splash. But it wouldn’t have resonated with his daughter forever the way that book will.
Have you heard of another thoughtful graduation gift?
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That is truly a fantastic gift! I don’t know how the dad would’ve kept it a secret it all those years, though … it would’ve slipped out for sure in my family! Just goes to show that personal, thoughtful gifts will always trump expensive, material items.