Give to Those Who Ask and Even Those Who Don't

We are in the season for giving - giving thanks for our many blessings, sharing our bounty, and showing appreciation of and to our fellowman. 

I love buying things for others and knowing that I've done something to brighten or ease the life of someone else. It's almost selfish because I think I am rewarded more than the recipients of my benevolence. I also believe that we are wired to care for our fellowman.  Philippians 2:13 states: "...for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose." Whatever you believe, I'm glad the inspiration is there!

The trick to giving, now and throughout the year, is simply to be aware. Sales are always around us.
I have found many bargains recently, and no need for Black Friday shopping. What is shared below is just to give you examples of how easy it is to be generous without spending a great deal.

Hy-Vee has a box of Russell Stover chocolates that is nearly two pounds and over 2 feet long for $10. Now the question is: Where should it find a good home? It could be one of the emergency stations for fire and police, a nursing facility, or maybe a great present for someone who is not likely to receive one. I'm certain the right destination will reveal itself to me, or I'd love for you to comment to this blog as to where you think it should go. Come up with a better idea and I will select a winner who will receive a copy of my first book, Christmas: A Season for Angels. Tell your friends and family to comment with their ideas, too!

I also purchased additional toys from Kohl's today with a $20 Kohl's cash certificate plus a little extra ($11). I even received 15% off of the already 40% off sale which allowed me to purchase a tea set, and three games. I'll add that to two new snuggle pets that light up the ceiling which were purchased at my church's holiday bazaar last Saturday ($10), and a large Marvel art kit ($14 from a previous sale and 30% discount), and I've got a great donation. My total outlay was just $35 for seven fun presents!

While I write checks to some charities, I like giving toys to the women's shelter. Abused women arrive with their children on or before the holiday without having been signed up on an adoptee list. It's traumatic enough for the kids without missing presents.

There is also the senior adoptee program for low-income seniors or seniors who have no one to buy for them. Most cities have some form of this, but in Lawrence, it's the Douglas County Senior Center.

Usually I purchase a microwave for someone who has only requested that one big item, but there are many who have a list and the adopter is only asked to pick one thing from it. All adopters are asked to also purchase a $50 or more grocery certificate. This year, my adoptee wanted a different big item which I found at a greatly reduced price at Home Depot. It's all anonymous so there is a special feeling of giving.

The bottom line is that it doesn't cost much to be generous if you look around. My family really isn't in need of much so for the last few years, I and my sister (who lives in the same city), brother-in-law and two nephews and their families have exchanged gifts of no more than $10 each. The rest is given to those who really are in need. And while I still spoil my two sons and daughter-in-law, they also engage in philanthropy as well.

I know that I am blessed to have more than I really need, and with that extra, I'm going to do my best to share with as many as I can. Now you can, too, by just being aware. Happy Thanksgiving and shopping!

Better Early Than Late

Yes, I know that it is a little too early for some to begin decorating for Christmas. I just don't happen to be one of them.

Last year, I left my Christmas tree in one piece so that it would be easier to decorate and I could do it more quickly. That also means decorating the light pole in front of my home with a lit garland, running greenery through the spindles of the stairway to the second story, decorating the mantel, and placing other bits of Christmas décor throughout.

This year I am going to be a little earlier than usual. The weather is to take a nasty turn on Tuesday and I don't want to decorate outside when it's 40 degrees and rainy. So on Monday, when it is in the 60s, my neighbors will be greeted with the first signs of the season, or maybe not. They may be thinking as I am.

I do love Christmas although it is somewhat bittersweet. I miss my loved ones who have transitioned to eternity, especially my husband, Steve. It was so much fun to celebrate holidays with him. He let me be a big kid, and then joined in the fun.

But this is also the time that I think of the real meaning of Christmas. Had Christ not been born, I would have no hope of seeing the departed ones I love. The best gift I could ever receive is being reunited with them, and then with those who will follow me.

While many people will grouse about the Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving, it isn't a problem for me. I'm thankful every day for my many blessings and for the gift of hope. So, at this time, I can truly say: better early than late.