The Perfect Present Read Online Free PDF

nothing.” She angrily wiped her tears.
    I was speechless. I had no idea my cousin felt like that. I knew not seeing her mother hurt her, but I didn’t know just how much.
    â€œYou will have your parents at home with you at Christmas,” she continued, crying. “My father is in Kuwait and my mom does not care about me.” Tionna put her face in her hands and started bawling.
    â€œI am sorry you feel like that,” I said, walking over to hug her. “You know I love you, cuz. I would do anything for you.”
    Tionna mumbled, “I love you, too. But you don’t understand what it is like for girls like me and Jayla. You have everything! I hear you complain about how your mother babies you. I wish my momma cared enough to baby me. You have no idea how blessed you are.” Tionna got up and walked out the room.

Chapter 5
    Today was the day of the youth ministry meeting. I was usually happy about the ministry events. However, Jayla and her relationship with Tionna were making me sad. I tried to stay home, but my daddy said no.
    â€œBeing the bigger person requires you to face the music,” he told me.
    I got to the church just in time to make Christmas Care Bags for the seniors. I enjoyed helping the people in our neighborhood. The bags would go to seniors at nursing homes and in the community. I had just placed the toothpaste and soaps in the bags when I heard my name being called. I turned to see Vanessa and Teresa.
    â€œCan we help?” Vanessa asked.
    â€œSure,” I said as I kept placing items in the care bags.
    â€œWe really miss you at dance practice,” Teresa said.
    Again, my first reaction was to say something smart, but then I thought about everything that had happened the past few weeks. I wanted to be the bigger person.
    â€œI miss being with the ministry. You ladies did a great job ministering last Sunday.”
    â€œDo you know when you are coming back?” Teresa asked.
    â€œNo. There are some things I need to work out.”
    The twins looked at each other, but did not say a word. Just then, our youth minister walked in and asked everyone to gather in the fellowship hall.
    â€œToday is a day to have fun and get back on track,” Minister Ron said once we were all seated. “We have a big Christmas play tomorrow and we want to go into it with nothing but love.”
    He looked my way and smiled. I smiled back.
    â€œWe are family,” Minister Ron continued. “Family does not always get along, but we still love each other. It is important that we remember the real meaning of the holiday season. It is not about getting a new iPad or North Face Jacket. I want you to spread love and help your fellow brothers and sisters. I also want you to learn to forgive others. It does not do you any good to hold negative thoughts in your heart.”
    Tionna looked at me and I looked at her. She was sitting beside Jayla. The twins were on the other side. Normally, that sight would’ve made me mad. But I thought about what my dad had said. I also thought about how Tionna felt and, before I knew it, I was on my feet.
    â€œExcuse me, Pastor Ron. I have something I want to say.” The room was quiet as everyone looked at me. “I am sorry for anything bad I said or did against anyone.” I took a deep breath before continuing. “I want everyone to know I amworking hard on becoming a better person. And I hope that those I’ve wronged,” I looked over at Tionna, then Jayla, “will forgive me.” I quickly sat down on the cold metal chair.
    Minister Ron smiled. “Thank you, Jasmine, for being brave. We all have work to do. Is there anyone else who needs to share?”
    I was surprised when Jayla stood up. She cleared her throat, then said, “Everyone here has been real nice to me. But I have not been nice to everyone.” She turned to me. “Jasmine, I apologize for not being nice to you. I know I said and did