志こころざしは松まつの葉はに包つつめ

expression

it's the thought that counts (for gifts)

Proverb meaning that the sincerity behind a gift matters more than its material value. The phrase literally says 'wrap your sincerity in a pine leaf,' suggesting even a humble wrapping is enough if the feeling is genuine.

• 贈おくり物ものは高こう価かでなくても、志こころざしは松まつの葉はに包つつめというから、気き持もちが大たい切せつだ。

  Even if a gift isn't expensive, they say 'it's the thought that counts,' so the feeling behind it is what matters.