Let’s Talk About GIVING
Tis the season for giving. Today is Christmas Day… The day where we join our family and friends bearing gifts and bringing good cheer. I want to focus on the latter. Giving does not have to mean spending money, using ribbons and bows and choosing just the right gift.
I want to discuss giving in a non-tangible way. We all know people in our life that are natural “givers” and we also know those that are “takers”. Some people will take your time, energy, advice and love and leave you with nothing in return. They leave you broke! Or broken… depending on their words. They are negative and non-supportive. They try to stay in a position above you in power. They break your dreams in half, laugh at your ideas and pollute you with doubt and fear.
Not only do these “takers” knock you down when you’re up, but because of their tendencies, you can’t really get closer to them. If you notice their destructive attitude, you are less likely to open up to them or share your true feelings. Subconsciously you will protect yourself by keeping things to yourself. What kind of friendship is that!?
Then there are those certain people in your life that give and give… and thrn give some more whether they are tired, broke, hungry or hurt. They have a giving spirit that will offer help and support to any friend in need. Once you leave their presence, you feel richer! They have taken your time, energy, advice and love and they return it with some of their own. They build you up, they offer you a hand if you have fallen, they lend you and ear if youre struggling. These types of people are blessings in your life. They listen to you when you speak, they don’t judge what you say and they are open to your ideas and show perspective, even if they don’t agree. Their support helps you have faith in yourself and your ambitions. They are true friends, there always and always giving more.
Who do you surround yourself with? People who actually care? People who build you up and support your choices and lifestyle or the people who knock you down,and leave you feeling self-worthless? The New Year is approaching and I challenge you to make your lists… Givers and Takers and take the time to reach out to all the givers in your life. Tell them how much you appreciate them. Maybe make a few changes in regards to the takers in your life. Are they worth your friendship? Are they worth your time and energy? If you have friends that are not open to meeting you half way, then maybe you should turn and walk away.
Relationships are not one-sided. Be sure to surround yourself with people you love… Who show you love in return. Give the most to those who give back. Remember the Golden Rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. So take a look at yourself. Are you a giver or a taker? Be a mover and a shaker and do something about it!
Have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!
We’ve just had the quietest Christmas ever – just family, no booze and my grandson.
It’s been the best!