Generosity
of Spirit
“True
generosity is an offering given freely and out of pure love. No
strings attached. No expectations. Time and love are the most
valuable possessions you can share.”
Suze
Orman
This
time of year, folks are racking their brains trying to come up with
gift ideas for family and friends. Most of us, whether we're buying for
Christmas or Hanukkah, have a budget that limits what we can spend. All too often we end up buying thoughtlessly just to get the job
done. I've been guilty of that myself. I'd like to take a minute
to ponder our gift giving habits.
First,
let's consider the age of the recipient. It they are children or
teenagers, a gift card may be your best bet, since they get more
kick out of choosing for themselves. Even better if you
take them shopping for that choice. If they are young adults, and in
the “acquiring” stage of life, perhaps a purchased gift of
something they need is in order. But, they may also like hand-me-downs of family
pieces, cut glass, dishes, hand-made quilts; things you already have,
and want to pass along to the next generation. My former
mother-in-law was good about that, and I loved it. If they are
settled people, middle-aged or older, who are in the “disposing”
stage of life, consider consumables. If you have a cooking specialty,
give that. If you're not a cook, fill a basket with fruit, crackers,
cheese, and maybe some dark chocolate.
The
very best gifts, of course, are our genuine interest, our time, and
our love—not the amount of money we spend or the number of things
we give. And, honestly, if we give a gift out of obligation and not
generosity of spirit, then we ought to consider not giving a gift at
all. That's like handing over bad juju! It may even harm them. If we
absolutely must give them something, then donate to a charity they
support. At least that would truly be a gift to someone! Take time to
be thoughtful in your giving this holiday season. You, your loved
ones—and your bank account—will be happier for it.
In
the Spirit,
Jane
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