"I agree. This is the first time in a while that I've come away from a mission feeling that I've really accomplished something. For once, we've given people hope." And that thought makes him smile broadly.

Upon hearing Jamie's question, he nervously averts his eyes. "We've spent so much time today giving to complete strangers. I thought it would be sensible to give to the people I live and work with here as well. This is yours, Jamie," he says, thrusting the lumpy blue thing at him.

If he chooses to open it, Jamie will find a high-quality classic bagpipe maintenance kit with clear instructions attached and a green plaid hat. Maybe they can have matching hat hair someday.