Regardless of how you look at it, Christmas is a time of giving.
While giving tangible gifts to your friends and family is a wonderfully rewarding experience, I believe that it is the duty of all of us to give back to the world.
Unfortunately, we live in a time where ‘thank you’ is seldom said, so this Christmas, I urge you to take the time to say it to someone in one way or another.
Home
If you’re younger or don’t have the cash to splash, helping out at home is a great way to give back to your parents. Give the floors a vacuum, cook the dinner or do a bit of ironing- nothing goes astray.
But most importantly, thank your parents for all that they do for you. You may not know it, but they have made a great deal of sacrifices for you over the years, so make sure you show your appreciation while you can.
Help
If you know anyone who is going through a difficult time, offer a helping hand.
Whether this be through providing emotional support, helping around the house, or assisting financially- every little bit counts.
Giving Trees
Head down to your local shopping centre or supermarket and you’re sure to find a mega easy way of giving back, as so many stores these days set up giving trees to donate to local community groups who pass on gifts to the less fortunate.
Whether you donate food, clothing, or toys for children, your efforts will be forever appreciated.
Shelters
Christmas tends to see a massive influx of abandoned animals in shelters, and as they’re typically run by volunteers, there can be major shortages of resources which tends to limit their abilities.
Donating food, volunteering your time or even fostering an animal are all excellent ways of giving back- especially during January.
Donations
If there is a cause that speaks to your heart, donating to it is an endlessly rewarding experience.
There are thousands upon thousands of charities out there which can be a little daunting, but when you find the right one, you’ll just know.
This year, I decided to donate what I would’ve usually spent on a present to myself, to Cancer Council. Now that I’ve seen cancer treatment in action and how little options there are for patients, I want nothing more than a non-invasive cure. And I can tell you, there is not a feeling more liberating in the world than giving up something materialistic (and probably pointless) to aid in educating and saving lives across the country.
If you’ve done something to give back this year or if this has inspired or reminded you to do so, I’d love to hear from you! Share your efforts and plans with me in the comments below.
Until tomorrow, 😉
