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It’s that time of year again, where organizations far and wide seem to be requesting that you look through what you own, and pare back a bit by selecting items you no longer use. Donation centers pop up in busy areas, collecting coats and other warm things for the less fortunate. It seems there’s a dressed up Santa Claus at every store entrance, ringing a bell and offering a cheerful hello. The spirit of the season is giving, and to participate in that spirit, it’s best to give to superb causes. Those friendly Santa’s collect money that directly benefits those for whom the times have become particularly hard. So instead of passing by and ignoring their cause, or their greeting, think for a moment. If the tables were turned, and you were the one who needed a helping hand, what would you want you to do? Give generously, of course.
Naturally, most people don’t think too much about how hard times affect others. They’re too focused on getting ahead at the office, or with small issues such as a co-worker whose habits drive them a little batty at times. But these are small concerns, and one needs to spend more time thinking about larger life issues. The holidays are a great reminder, for a block of time each year, to think beyond yourself.
Think of creative ways to give. Have a house ‘emptying party’ where everyone under your roof gives away ten percent of what they’ve got in their closet. A lot of people will find that this merely clears space for new gifts they receive during the holidays! But at the same time, those warm items will help keep other children and adults warm, when they’ve got to keep the thermostat lower than they’d like because of the cost of heating. Give generously at every opportunity, and if need be, create your own giving ‘cause.’
