ALT-6 Good Gifting Spend Time instead of Money
We hurry here and there, and we are constantly doing something. There's little time to speak with one another and to listen and hear what each other is saying. The most treasured gift of all this season could simply be the gift of you. Give of yourself.
Visiting Shut-In. Those who are confined to their homes and seldom receive visitors are most appreciative of time spent by those who care about them. When you visit, listen to them speak and share your love and concern with them, it is the most valuable gift they could receive. Your time will be treasured for a long while.
Running Errands. Perhaps you know somebody who cannot get out but needs things done. Volunteer to run the errands for them. If you're going to the grocery store, ask what you can pick up for them. The same goes for the pharmacy. Others often don't like to ask, but if you state that you're going to a certain place, they don't mind putting in their request.
Perform Chores. Let's say that you have a grandparent, whose windows are filthy from the summer's rains. Offer to clean them for the holiday. Or perhaps there are a huge amount of leaves in the yard that require raking before the snow flies. By doing so, the person can rest well knowing that the leaves won't be around in the spring to interfere with the flowers' sprouting.
Children With Absent Parent. You have a neighbor or friend whose spouse is overseas in the armed services. They have children who sorely miss that parent. While you certainly could never, nor would want to, fill in for that parent, you can make a difference. Spend time with those children playing games, taking them to a park or movie or an activity of their choice. These children will appreciate the adult attention more than any one items they could have received.
Feed the Homeless. While you cannot feed all the homeless nor provide shelter for them, you can help. Prepare sandwiches and a warm beverage such as cider or hot chocolate and take it to a local hangout for homeless people. They will be extremely grateful and it will fill your heart with peace in the thought that you made a difference to them that day.
With your thinking cap on, you are bound to discover endless ways to provide a gift to others without the need for money to do so.
