Christmas time is a time of giving. During the holidays we reach out to others and charitable organizations more than any other time of the year. But, what and how is the best way to give back? How do you make your gift really meaningful?
There are many wonderful ways to give. My sister Linda, who is a former Patriot Guard Rider, and is passionate about supporting Veterans, recently asked me if I would send a package to a soldier. She didn’t know who he was, just that he didn’t have anyone sending him a package and it would be nice for him to receive something special.
She recommended a few items I could send such as candy, beef jerky, peanut butter crackers, etc…and of course, I followed her recommendations. However, I still wanted to give something more that would make a lasting impact or impression.
Everywhere you look we see suggestions on gift ideas. After a lot of thought, I decided that I would enclose a thank you note telling him that I appreciate what he is doing. I told him that I will say a prayer every day for his safety and wrote that even though he may not know me, he can be assured that whenever he has fears, or struggles, there is someone out there that has already prayed for his well-being. I wanted him to find comfort knowing that a stranger cares and is appreciative of his selfless duty.
Thus, the reason for this story on my blog. I’m hoping to impress upon you to some way engage personally in your generosity. Make your giving meaningful and memorable. Whether it’s a name you’ve chosen from a giving tree, a food basket for the needy, or a donated coat, try personalizing the gift. Enclose a handwritten note in that coat. Place a Christmas card in your food basket donation.
In the end, it’s not about how much you spend, or the grandeur of your package, it’s always about the thought that goes into it. We tend to overlook that at times. In the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives it’s easy to get trapped in the usual giving routines.
We mean well, we go to church and put money in a basket, drop of food at a food bank, or help out with local charities. Yet, there’s a bigger picture out there and we are missing it. We need to open our eyes and pay more attention to our so-called good deeds. The next time you give, try giving with the heart as well as out of your pocket. We really don’t know where it will lead, or how exactly it will be received, yet it is worth a try. *
*The Patriot Guard Riders is an organization whose members attend funerals of the United States Military, and first responders with the invitation of the decedent’s family. Founded in 2005 they have grown across the U.S. to shield families of the fallen heroes from protesters that would disrupt the service.
This is a beautiful post and message Nancy. I feel strongly about giving and really enjoy doing something special. It is true we are most cognizant about giving during the Holidays, but you can certainly make it a part of your life. I am hoping to at some point get my dogs certified as therapy dogs to visit the hospitals, kids hospitals, homes etc.
I love that you write Thank you notes too, as I feel it is a lost art! I know, off topic, but a message that it is important to give to others !
Happy Monday!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
Hello Jess,
I saw on your website that your parents taught you as a child to help pets. I also saw the pet wish list for Christmas. Pet’s can make a huge difference in therapy for many people. My good friend just did that with her dog. As for Thank you noes… they are more meaningful than an email or text. I hope that any people are inspired to give this season.
Merry Christmas to you!
Nancy
Thanks for sharing this. I’m reminded of the young teen in my old neighborhood who was left alone to fend for himself when his single mom was sent to the Middle East. We can offer so much more thank sighs of regret. Great post. By the way I was also introduced to an organization called Operation 300 that helps children of fallen heroes.
Hello Rosemarie,
That sounds so very sad that that the young teen had to fend for himself. There are so many good organizations but they need people to support them, especially around the holidays. I hope that I inspired others to make some kind of difference. Operation 300 sounds amazing!
Merry Christmas to you!
Nancy
Such an inspiring post! Thank you for sharing this. Do you know where to find organizations to sign up to send packages to soldiers?
Hello Heidi,
I can reach out to my good friend in North Carolina she is on the board of directors for the USO or I can ask my sister who rides with the Patriot riders. I can message you when I find out. Thanks for responding to me about the blog I’m glad you liked it.
Regards,
Nancy