‘Tis better to give than receive

 

The month of December brings with it great expectations. For young children, they often expect that when Christmas day rolls around, they will have their arms filled with many gifts. Sadly, older children and adults are glad if they receive but one gift. I guess that is just the way it is. The older you get, the less presents you receive. However, as you grow older, you may find that you focus more on giving gifts, rather than waiting with open arms to receive them. There is a sheer joy in being able to give a gift that delights a loved one or someone truly in need.

 

As such, I believe that it is better to give than to receive, during this Yuletide season. Now before you raise your eyebrows and say, “well, it goes both ways”, let me say that if you really and truly put your heart into it, you will find that you do get a lot back. If you however just count what you receive by numbers alone, you will miss out on the good things this season.

 

So what can you give that is intangible, that will see you getting something back? Well for starters, you can start with a smile. By putting a smile on your face, you can brighten your day and spread some cheer to others as well. You can add to this a cheery greeting, such as “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings”. Though you will find a few who will rain on your parade, the majority will offer something pleasant in return.

You can also give a listening ear this Yuletide season, to that deserving someone who is not quite feeling the Christmas spirit. Some persons are not feeling the Christmas spirit, due to illness or loss. However, by simply listening to these individuals, we can help them through their dark period.

 

This Christmas season, give an old friend a phone call. I am sure there must be someone somewhere that you have not heard for ages. Well, why not give that person a ring and surprise him or her? I am sure you will enjoy reminiscing and catching up and rekindling that friendship.

 

There are so many things you can give that won’t cost you a thing. If you however want to give something tangible, why not give a massage to a loved one or even a pedicure or manicure. I am sure your grandmother or even your mother would relish such. Why not take your youthful loved ones sightseeing for a day or take them to the beach? This will only cost you gas for the car and some snacks. There will however be memories made to last a lifetime.

 

All in all, as you open any kind of gift this Christmas, be thankful. Think of the many individuals who will only be wishing they could do the same. Just always remember than whenever you do give something, tangible or intangible, life has a funny way of paying you back. That is to say that whenever and whatever you do decide to give, be sure that you will receive something in return. 

 

Happy Holidays!!