Make A Change | December 2007

A Year’s Worth of Gift-Giving

The holidays are here — which for many of us translates to an endless round of shopping, hours of cooking and a level of stress that has changed “Ho! Ho! Ho!” into “Bah, humbug!”
We want the holidays to be perfect, we want all the gifts we give to those we love to be exactly what they wanted, and we want to end the season with an overflowing sense of love and gratitude. But rarely does the holiday live up to our expectation, and I suspect one of the reasons is because we try to cram a year’s worth of giving into a few brief weeks.

So, this season, I would like to offer you an alternative approach: instead of giving just in December, turn all of 2008 into a “giving” year. I’m not talking about tangible presents, but rather the soul-expanding, spirit-refreshing, heart-warming gifts that everyone needs, ourselves included.

I’ve developed a “Gift List” for you to start with — consider it my gift to you! — but feel free to add some of your own ideas. Then, starting in January 2008, post an update on my Change blog: what gift did you give, who did you give it to (including yourself), and what the outcome was.

Your 2008 Gift List
Each month, choose a “gift” to give to another or maybe even to yourself!

The gift of Time — Often the most precious and desired present you can give to others is to simply spend time with them. It’s a one-size-fits-all offering that enriches both the giver and recipient.

The gift of Generosity — While the obvious act is to send a check, consider donating your time and attention to someone who needs a little TLC during a difficult time.

The gift of Excitement — Each week, surprise someone around you with unexpected kindness: a thoughtful act, a small gift, a few moments of conversation instead of silence.

The gift of Contentment — Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, make a list of that which bring satisfaction, pleasure and ease into your life. You may find you are less likely to spend time complaining — a gift to those around you!

The gift of Forgiveness — As a gift to yourself, let go once and for all of the hurt and anger another’s behavior has caused you.

The gift of Happiness — Be a child again: laugh, play, have some fun! Better yet, take another with you back to that magical childhood time!

The gift of Comfort — Give someone who is in physical, emotional or spiritual pain some heartfelt consoling words, a warm hug—even just a phone call or letter—as your personal prescription.

The gift of Appreciation —Thank those who provide service to you on a regular basis: the mail carriers and delivery people, the sanitation workers and bus drivers, the sales clerks and toll booth workers (just to name a few).

The gift of Remembrance — Send cards to those who are alone (in nursing homes, in shelters, serving overseas) with a handwritten note telling them that they have not been forgotten.

The gift of Acknowledgment — It takes so little to recognize the presence of those around us. A look, a word, or a touch of the hand can let others know that you are aware of them and that their very existence has value.

The gift of Gratitude — Make a list of all that you are grateful for, not only the joyous events in your life but those painful ones that have helped you grow as a person.

The gift of Peace — Each day, not matter how stressed, angry or upset you are, spend at least 15 minutes in calm and silent reflection. This gift to yourself will have a positive impact on everyone around you!

Each month, download the Change Challenge to keep yourself on track and use the Success Certificate to mark your achievement!

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