This Christmas ….

What does the gift of Christmas mean to you?

We are often taught growing up it is better to give than receive and yet our culture or social media these days does not communicate this value, rather at times it encourages personal gain despite the cost. This creates a self-focus and at Christmas time this can include us wanting to receive equal gifts that we give. Wouldn’t it be great if we could give generously of ourselves in the form of:

·       Time

·       Words

·       Love

·       Compliments

·       Affirmations

·       Support  

·       Friendliness

·       Tolerance

·       Kindness

·       Hope

·       Believing in others

·       Creating a memory

Without wanting to receive anything in return.

Material gifts are often the driver of this time of year and while it is nice to give a possession it only offers short term pleasure for the receiver that often fades over time.

Will this year at Christmas be a self-centred or an other-centred time for you?

This time of year can provide an opportunity to bring out the best in us and while we learn traditions through others, this year can be different. If you are willing to invest in giving generously without expecting return maybe try reaching out to another in a way you haven’t before.

Giving something that is lasting creates social connectedness and increases self-esteem for both the giver and the receiver.

Written by Anita Baills