You Can Give Something

 

 

A sweet lady I follow on Instagram posted this the other day.  I love what it says.  For me the ONE thing that matters at Christmas is to never forget the true meaning.  But I do get what this is saying.  And it got me thinking about those who have nothing.

I think spending time with family is pretty important around the holidays.  It's what I want my boys to remember.  Not that I don't want them to remember spending time with family every other day of the year.  But there is just something about being with family during the Christmas season.  It's about making memories. 

But what if you do not have a family to make memories with? Or what if this month brings struggles financially?

That is where I sat pondering.  What are some simple things I can do to give?  How can I be a light to others?  We all know Christmas time brings out the best in many people. We just want to do good to our fellow mankind.  But unfortunately there will always be crabby people.  And those that are a big Scrooge at Christmas.  How can I spread cheer to those that have nothing?

-Be kind with your words.  Speaking kind words, its simple really, if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.  Christmas time for lots of folks is a hard time for many different reasons.  I believe in speaking kindly to the person at the grocery store ringing up my groceries or the stranger I pass on the street because I just may be the only person to say anything nice to them that day or maybe the only person to say anything to them at all.  I just might make their day by saying something nice.  Last year when me and the boys would go shopping we made a special point to tell every single cashier at every single store "MERRY CHRISTMAS".  Many looked at us like we were crazy because we all three would say it, but many were so happy and appreciative that someone was taking the time to be kind.
-Smile.  Surprise people while your out shopping.  Smile at them as they pass you by.  Smiling makes me feel good anyway.  And doesn't it feel good to share what you love?  When I do this people often think I am up to something.  It's my little secret to get people wondering.
-Be of Good Cheer.  It would be easy to become discouraged and cynical about this time of year for some.  All the excessive shopping, buying and gift giving.  Especially when you may not have as much as others. None of us makes it through this life without problems and challenges—and sometimes tragedies and misfortunes.  BUT each day is as bright as our faith.  It really comes down to this, "It's all about attitude!"  You make the choice each day as to how your day will go.  Give yourself and the those around you (family and or strangers) a gift of kind words and a positive attitude. 
-Volunteer or Give.  SO MANY organizations at this time of year are in need of clothing (coats), food, and of course toys for Christmas.  And don't forget older kids and seniors.  We have been volunteering since before Thanksgiving helping to sort and stock food at a local non-profit organization my mother is director of.  Because she is director the boys are able to go.  Call and check guidelines at your local organizations for your children to volunteer.  The boys last about an hour .  It is not much, but every little bit helps.  Maybe you don't have the free time to volunteer.  Give a donation to an organization.  A gift card to a family in need.  Other ways to give during the holiday season might be visiting a nursing home.  Maybe making a meal for a busy mom with a new baby.   Sickness still comes during the Christmas season.  Check in on those who are ill.  Visit them at home or in the hospital.  Meals, shopping, babysitting are all gifts to give.  

Bottom line is there are many people hurting at this time of year.  Step out.  Reach out.  God made us to need each other.