Giving from the heart

Yes, in about 10 days Christmas Day will be here. Are you ready? Well, I am not quite ready for the holiday. I will be or else it will come and go. It is going to be what it is no matter what we do or how much we buy. Most of us stress over this time of year. We spend way to much or else we worry that the gift we got “Aunt Sally” just wasn’t perfect.

Christmas comes and goes. It will come again next year and you will be doing the same thing. Stressing over those last minute preparations (wrapping, buying, cooking, cleaning, mailing those last minute cards and making a Christmas gathering.)

This year, I am taking a different approach to Christmas. First come the children. I buy and shop for them after all, they are the most fun to shop for. Christmas is for kids. The lights in their eyes and the fun they have just opening a gift makes it all worthwhile. The other gifts will be homemade or something that I found that reminds me of the gift getter. Whether it be an ornament or a box of candy or some rice crispy treats, I plan to give from the heart. Those that need a more in depth gift will get time from me. I plan to make up coupons for a dinner on the town for a friend who is struggling, a trip to the grocery store for my neighbor, a babysitting pass for a couple who needs a night out, a free game night for a couple who loves to play cards and don’t get that luxury often, or a free meal for a friend who has children and would love a night off. These are things that don’t cost an arm and a leg. They are things that comes from giving from the heart. You can buy all the newest and most modern gifts you want too, but think of the impression you will make when you give of your time. It’s the thought that counts. It’s not about the gift.

I want to make a lasting impression on those that are dear to me. So giving of my time is one way to do just that. It’s the little things in life that count. I remember one year, a friend gave me a journal. In the journal on special days were assignments. For example on your birthday-hug yourself and then go out and buy yourself a candy bar. Celebrate your birth.

As we celebrate Christmas and the birth of Christ we can take lessons from Him. He gave his life and his time. Why not try to emulate your life after his. So this Christmas when you get stumped with what to buy just give from the heart.

Merry Christmas!!!