"It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving." – Mother Teresa
I love to shop, but all the shopping that must be done for Christmas is overwhelming and can aggravate me. I am not saying that all shopping is frustrating. I love to shop for my family and friends, but in the back of my mind, I often wonder: Will they like it? Will this gift end up in the Goodwill box? Or have I disappointed them?
Don’t worry; today, I am stepping away from the topic of shopping and examining the benefits of giving.
When I was young, my parents often reminded my brother and me, "It is better to give than receive.” I thought, “Sure.” At a very young age, my parents started teaching me about giving. One year, my brother and I were asked to pick one of our toys to take to children in the hospital. I chose my large yellow and white stuffed bear. At first, I was resentful, but once I got to the hospital and saw the look on the little girl’s face after I gave her the bear, I was blessed!! My whole attitude about giving to others changed.
As an adult, I find giving extremely gratifying. I love giving to those in need and to my friends. Watching my friends and family open their gifts and smile brings joy. Knowing that I helped someone warms my heart. There are all kinds of ways we can give during the holiday season.
· My church collects the names and wants of those in need, and we pick who we want to buy for and bring the gifts back. They are wrapped and given to the children and teens.
· You can volunteer at a homeless shelter or a place feeding the food insecure.
· Adopt a family for the holiday
· Make gifts for friends and family
· Donate to the charity of your choice.
· Sing at a Senior Living Center of Convalescent Hospital.
· Visiting someone who is lonely.
Remember, giving doesn’t have to be financial. You can give of your time and talents.
You may think giving pertains only to birthdays and Christmas. However, it is an important practice giving year-round.
· Often, homeless shelters, churches, and organizations need help year-round.
· Your gift can be extended to your family and friends.
o Spending time with your child
o Vacuuming the floor for your spouse
o Take time to listen to someone
o Volunteer
o Going to lunch with mom
All of those above make you feel good about yourself and others.
I have written this blog to encourage you not to worry so much about what to buy for who but how you can do something for someone else, which in turn helps you grow as a person.
This Christmas, consider embracing the spirit of giving—not just as an obligation but as a privilege that connects us all.
HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS SEASON!!
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