The Gift of Giving

The Gift of Giving

Several years ago I was traveling alone, driving home from a weekend trip. I had pulled off the highway to get some lunch and when I returned to my car, I discovered I had a flat tire. I went back inside the restaurant to find a pay phone (yes, it was that long ago) and called for roadside assistance. 

Two young men at a nearby table overheard me. While I was on hold, one of them came over and told me if I had a spare tire in my trunk, they would be happy to change the tire for me. I demurred, but he assured me that he and his friend could get me going in no time. 

I accepted his offer, and true to his word, he and his friend changed my tire in just a few minutes. I wanted to offer them some money and felt embarrassed I didn’t have much. I offered it anyway. They politely declined, explaining that, for them, it wasn’t a big deal. 

However, it was a big deal to me, having been spared a lengthy wait and unplanned expense. I have never forgotten them. 

I may not have had the means to pay them back in that moment, but over the years, I have had the opportunity to pay their kindness forward. The small acts of kindness I have offered strangers—helping to carry groceries to a car, covering a small shortfall at a cash register—did not cost me much in terms of time, money, or effort, but they made a big difference for those folks who needed a bit of help. 

The Gifts We Have to Give 

Generosity is a big part of the Christmas season and an important one too. Giving to those less fortunate, supporting organizations that are working to create a better world, and surprising dear ones with a token of appreciation or affection make the holidays richer and more enjoyable.  

As we move more deeply into the holiday season, opportunities for giving will abound. There are so many ways to give, serve, and share with others—from our immediate family and social circles to our communities and beyond. The Christmas season opens our eyes and softens our hearts, filling us with hope and the belief we can create peace on earth and goodwill to all through the very act of giving of ourselves. 

When the holiday season comes to a close and another new year is upon is, chances to give, share, and serve will continue. We can keep the Christmas spirit alive by remaining aware of others, noticing their needs and doing what we can—however small—to help. Our efforts may not feel like much to us, but they can make a world of difference to someone else. 

No gift is too small. No act of kindness is insignificant. The gifts we give—a monetary donation, a helping hand, a few moments of our time—will live in the minds and hearts of the receivers. These are the gifts that speak louder than words, last longer than the holidays, and inspire more generous impulses in us as well as in those who are touched by our giving. These are the gifts that keep the Christmas spirit alive in us and in those whose lives we will touch in the days, months, and years ahead.