Christmas Spirit

December is often a month where we think of others.  We go shopping, both online and in stores, to select the best gifts for our loved ones.   We show our caring through gift giving and the thought we put behind it.  It is sometimes easy to get over committed and to worry too much about what to get someone.  Additionally, we must always remember people are less fortunate than us.  Even when times are tough we must remember that other people have just as many or even more problems.  So this holiday season remember to be gracious and charitable.

It’s about Love not Possessions

 All of us have an idea of what we want to receive as a gift this season.  We make our lists, we check them twice, and we come up with clever ways to make sure our family members know what we have our eyes on.  However, some of us do not get what we see as our perfect gift.  Someone will likely buy something we do not want or need.  It is crucial that we remember that we should be gracious and thankful for any gift no matter how disappointing or wonderful it might be.  Our friends and family work hard for what they have and taking any amount of time or money to use toward a gift is an act of kindness.  A present is more about making the recipient feel loved and cared for and less about what the item is.   So when it comes time to open the presents on Christmas day remember that it is the thought that counts.  Getting the item you really wanted is just a nice bonus.  It is the love and caring that matters the most.

Donation Programs

The amount of people that ask for donations during the holiday season can be overwhelming.  We get phone calls, e-mails, post cards, and asked for donations every time we purchase anything.  Every company has its own charity, every religious organization has its own campaign, and every city or township does some sort of food, clothing, or gift drive.   It is easy to get annoyed or overwhelmed by all the charities out there, but we must remember that this is a wonderful thing.  These organizations and their programs show how wonderful people can be.  Even in a tough economic situation, there are people who speak out and find ways to make a difference.  Every time we donate a single penny we are doing something to help someone in need.  That being said, it is okay not to donate to every organization every time.  We have limited resources and most of us cannot afford to donate to everyone who asks.  What we can do is be kind and gracious when we decline.  It is not necessary to point out what donations you do make, there is no need to be upset when asked for money, just simply say no thank you or not at this time.  Giving to charity should be about what you want and what programs you believe in and that’s okay.  It is just important to remember that other people will have a different approach.  Any donation you make will help someone else’s life, so be gracious, be courteous, be thoughtful, be respectful, and do not feel bad that you cannot do everything yourself.

All About the Food

It is hard to imagine celebrating any holiday without some sort of festive meal.  We gather together, in a safe and responsible way, to feast and celebrate the holidays.  We make holiday dishes and desserts and everyone brings something to contribute to the feast.  It is hard to image celebrating without a festive Thanksgiving and Christmas day meal but the current economic situation has made this a reality for too many of our neighbors.  People are in need and everywhere you look there are long lines at the food banks of people who are seeking help.  Part of the holiday spirit is providing for those in need and now is the time to take action.  Spend an afternoon doing some research and seeing how you can help provide holiday meals for people who need assistance.  This can be done through volunteering, through food donation programs, or through financial gifts.  Remember any help that you can provide is a blessing.  Do not think that a small donation goes unnoticed.  Imagine if everyone in the country gave $1 to their local food banks.  Millions and millions of dollars would be raised and countless numbers of families and individuals would benefit.   So take a minute or two to make whatever donation you can.  Spread the holiday joy to those in need.  Doing so will only help improve your feelings during the holiday.  Knowing you did what you can to help others should be a reward in itself.

Christmas can be a stressful time, it can be a difficult time, and it can be a wonderful time.  It is the season of love and the season of joy and it is up to every single one of us to spread some holiday cheer.  So remember be thankful for the gifts we receive, be thankful that we have loved ones to give gifts to, and spread some joy to those in need.  Have a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season.