Our holiday food splurge was a small crate of tangerines, which we found ridiculously thrilling after an eight-month abstinence from citrus.... Lily hugged each one to her chest before undressing it as gently as a doll. Watching her do that as she sat cross-legged on the floor one morning in pink pajamas, with bliss lighting her cheeks, I thought: Lucky is the world, to receive this grateful child. Value is not made of money, but a tender balance of expectation and longing.
The narrator reflects on a simple holiday joy—a small crate of tangerines—that brings immense happiness after a long period without citrus. This moment becomes heartwarming, especially as Lily gingerly handles each tangerine, treating them with care and excitement, reminiscent of a child's precious doll. It highlights the pure joy found in small things, and the narrator feels fortunate to witness such gratitude in her child.
This experience emphasizes that true value in life isn't measured by wealth but by the emotional connections we have and the joy found in our desires and experiences. The author suggests that the balance between what we expect and what we long for cultivates a deep appreciation for the simplest pleasures, showcasing how meaningful moments can often stem from life's modest offerings.
