It’s supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” according to the late, holiday song crooner, Andy Williams. But let’s be honest, as a White Sox fan, often this time of year is filled with disappointment and lackluster, off-season signings. On the personal side of our lives, there are too many people trying to grab that most-desired toy, traffic is horrible and the weather is blustery. And of course, there is a lot of family time. Lots of family time.
It is during times like these, it is easy to be a “Scrooge” and say, “bah humbug” to it all.
I want you to take a deep breath, be a little more patient, and a little more generous. You don’t need to have a lot of money to be generous.
A few of my favorite ways to show generosity during this season are to:
- Donate your time, or money, to the local animal shelter.
- Contribute to the grocery stores’ drive to feed families less fortunate (they usually give you the chance to choose the amount you donate.)
- Shovel the sidewalk for the single parent who lives next door – Lord knows I do not know how they do it all without a partner.
- Don’t ignore that friend of a friend who posts on Facebook for you to donate a little to help a sick family via GoFundMe.
- Tip well. Gift well. This includes your postal carrier, your waste management team, teachers, etc.
- Let that car merge in to your lane when they have had miles to merge over. Sorry, I am prone to road rage any time of year, this one is likely more personal to me.
- Let your family know how much they mean to you – biological family or not.
According to reports, being generous helps YOU, the giver, live a happier, healthier, more satisfied life, than those who do not give. It’s science.
Be a little more intentional, a little more selfless, a little more thankful and a little more generous with your time, your talents and your cash.