The Holiday season is in full swing, and shopping malls all across the country are filling up with gift shoppers. Giving gifts to one another is an important part of our holiday tradition, and many of you who are reading this will be giving gifts to friends or family members this season.
But this holiday season, I want you to think about giving something more than just a physical gift. There is nothing wrong with these traditional gifts of course, as they are a great way to show your appreciation and to make others smile. But I want you to think beyond the bright shiny toys, the designer clothes, and the latest electronics for a moment. I want you to look for opportunities to give of yourself this holiday season.
Look for opportunities to love. It may be a kind word to a cashier. It may be a hug or an encouraging word to a co-worker who is going through difficult times.
Look for opportunities to give your time. We have all seen the movies in which a rich businessman or businesswoman sends out an assistant to buy a birthday present for a family member or friend. If the recipient were to find out about it, the gift would be tarnished in their eyes, not because the actual gift is somehow worth less, but because the time and the energy that goes into picking out a gift is valuable. Time is among the most precious assets we have in this world. Look for ways to spend your time for the benefit of others.
Look for opportunities to give positive energy. The holiday season is hectic and stressful for many people. Sometimes the last thing we want to do is spend precious energy on someone else. But the gift of energy is priceless. Sometimes it is as simple as taking just 10 minutes of spending quality time with your spouse, your child, or a friend. Other times it may mean just sending positive energy to those who are struggling with something in their lives.
There will be plenty of opportunities for you and I to spend money on gifts this year, and again, there is nothing wrong with giving gifts. But, please don’t lose sight of the deeper, more powerful gift that you have to give—the gift of yourself. Giving of yourself, your love, your time, and your energy will truly make a difference to those around you.
Have a wonderful, peaceful holiday season.
Many blessings to you!