For different people, the holiday season seems to evoke feelings of joy, a sense of wonder, or dread. Some revel in the lights, decorations, and good tidings, feeling generous and energized. Others just wish the holidays would pass quickly so they don’t feel so blue.
In these times of belt tightening, when so many people feel financially pinched, this season is one that lights up smiles when people receive warm greetings, kind thoughts and generous gestures from friends or strangers. It is also a time when we are invited to recognize that all of us have something to give that brings light to other people’s lives.
I was speaking with a friend who works at a parenting center last week. He told of hundreds of people who volunteered to wrap gifts for families in need. Some came to wrap, even if they were to be recipients because even though they were financially challenged this year, they wanted to be able to give something to others. And their present was time to gather and wrap the gifts and donations. Families who received donations and gifts last year came to volunteer this year. AND this was not the only story I heard like this one last week.
No matter what is going on in our lives, we always have something to give that lights the day for someone else. In this moment—today—the present, we all have something that can bring a smile or a reminder to others that they matter. If each of consciously chooses to be present to the people around us, the gifts we give may not cost anything more than a moment of kindness, a gentle smile, a warm greeting, or a wonderful hug. AND the generosity of the heart is the spirit of Christmas or Hanukkah, or the Season.
So as you celebrate whatever is your tradition, may it be happy. AND may we all take a moment to share something with someone whose spirit may soar and heart may be warmed by whatever we give from the heart.
