The Christmas Gift

Anna smiled as her little brother and sister each opened a gift left by Santa Claus. It had been a rough year for the Sorensen family. Father had worked hard to get a claim on land on the western side of Minnesota. The family had traveled from England to make a new start in America. The trip on the boat had been long and depressing. Everyone got sick; and Anna, who was the healthiest of the family, spent her time caring for the family.

Upon their arrival in America, the Sorensens had a hard time finding their trunks and belongings. It took three weeks before they were ready to leave New York. Mother was very sick during this time, and Anna worried about her constantly.

Once the luggage had been secured and Father made arrangements to travel to their land, they set off for Minnesota. Mother continued to worsen, and Anna took on all of her mother’s roles. She cared for her mother in the back of the wagon. Day in and day out, her mother had a fever.

It all came to an end one morning when Anna came back from a spring with fresh water. “Mama!” shrieked Anna. She saw her mother’s slumped body leaning in the wagon. But it was too late: she was dead. The months that followed were filled with tears and grief. The summer months turned to fall, and soon winter was upon the family.

Anna’s thoughts turned back to the present and Christmas morning. Just then, Father handed her a gift. Anna was surprised. She didn’t expect to receive anything this Christmas. She started to protest.

“Open it,” interrupted Father. Anna opened the gift and saw her mother’s shawl.

“I just can’t,” said Anna softly.

“You must. Mother would have wanted you to have it,” said Father. “You’ve worked so hard to care for our family. You deserve it.”