Gift of giving…
As we get closer to the fall and winter holidays, we become more aware of giving, especially as we gather with family and friends and show our love and appreciation with a special gift to each other.
Finding that meaningful gift that shows our gratitude to those we love and care about can become quite daunting as we spend lots of our own time searching for that special something that will please the ones we love. However, it goes even deeper when we give a gift. Sometimes just in the gathering we are giving a priceless gift of togetherness and companionship. That social connection is invaluable to our spirit and soul. Still, when someone goes that extra mile to find something personal and meaningful customized just for them, it touches one’s heart in such a loving and fulfilling way.
Gratefulness:
Also, at this time of year we count our blessings and are more aware, appreciative, and grateful for what we have, and want to share that goodwill with others. Sometimes the simplest of gifts–like a new hose to water their garden–can bring a person to tears when it is something they needed but did not have the funds to buy for themselves. Or spending a day helping someone to go through their garage and clear out the clutter can be a priceless gift indeed. We do not need to go very far to find that there are so many close to us, a neighbor, a relative, a friend who need charity and our selflessness can be a shining light in their lives during this time of year.
Health and Wellness:
Giving a gift to improve one’s health is a gift given that can keep giving for years to come. This can be a membership to the Gym, Dance and Fitness Classes, a new bike, treadmill, a gift certificate to a healthy store and or restaurant. Giving can come in many different packages, and as we help someone’s health, we in turn also support a small business at the same time, giving double the gift of kindness.
Charities:
Giving a donation to a child who does not have the resources to enjoy extracurricular activities, or other opportunities due to being economically disadvantaged can change a life for the better forever. With just the smallest kindness of giving, we can make a difference, as well as brighten and improve their abilities to succeed through character, and strength building charities.
Gift to Ourselves:
Our bodies release endorphins when we give to others and it gives us a great feeling of happiness, which in turn is the gift we are giving to ourselves when we are in the process giving to others. That feeling can be quite contagious, and opens our hearts and thoughtfulness to the gifting others. So be sure to give that special gift of happiness to yourself this year by reaching out to others with either your time, your charity, a thoughtful gift, or customized gift of health and wellness, and especially embrace and celebrate the priceless present of togetherness.