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Between the crisis in Alleppo, the supposed hacking from the Russians, and our divisive US, it’s about time we do something good. 2016 has been a tough one for a lot of people around the world, but I am a serial optimist and I always look for the silver lining. I’ve been in Europe for the past two weeks and while most people agree that the US is actually the DS or Divided States, they are all still going to celebrate Christmas with their families.
It’s overwhelming to see people suffer throughout the world, but we have to find time to make our lives okay. It could be a simple justification to live in this cruel world, but I firmly believe that we must keep a positive attitude. We need to help those who might otherwise not have anything positive to look at. That means looking in the mirror, helping our own family, our spouse, children, community, and of course the entire planet and population. This holiday season, wherever you see a need, please take a step in the direction to help.
For me, this time of year is about family, it’s about coming together and spreading the holiday cheer. It’s about spending time with friends and giving back to those less fortunate. This year we’re sponsoring a family and sending a few gifts. It amazes me that some of my wealthy friends complain about doing the same, but hopefully they can find it in their hearts to give.
We’re all here for too short a time to be greedy. And the suffering is too painful to watch without trying to help. I know we can’t help everywhere and everyone, but a little bit is all I ask. Will you give a little to your church? Will you sponsor that family, or give a little money? Can you spare some time and serve the homeless? Anything helps and it’s really easy to do. A few clicks of a mouse can change someone’s life. You can do it because it will make you feel good or you can do it because you know it’s right. Whatever the reason, whatever your celebration, let’s let the rest of the year be one that has an impact.
Here are 5 suggestions to spread holiday cheer:
1. Donate money to your favorite organization. This is an easy thing to do because it takes just a few minutes and if you’re not prone to giving it makes you feel like you contributed. It definitely counts. People around the world and even in your own community need your money. I challenge you to take an extra moment and think about what that money can do to help. Take an extra moment to think about the organization and how it uses the donations. Think about the child who might otherwise not get a pair of shoes. When you give make sure to find an organization who has than higher than 90% of their fundraising go to their cause. Beadforlife and GOCampaign.org
2. Donate time to your local church or charity. Serve meals to the homeless. This is another easy one, it just takes time and commitment. Whether you’re in a big city or a rural town, you can find someone that needs help. Maybe go to your local grocery store who is donating canned goods. They always need volunteers to help bag items. Salvation Army
3. Sponsor a family. This is one of things that we’ll be doing. My wife found a family and we’ve purchase a few items for the kids. There are so many people under the poverty line in America that it’s easy to find someone who will appreciate what you have to give. Be an Elf
4. Give someone a hug. That’s really all that you have to do. I’m sure you’ve seen the Youtube videos of free hugs. Notice how people are skeptical at first, but once their guard is down, they open up like a beautiful flower. They get a big smile and it makes their day. Go make someone’s day.
5. Do something anonymous. I’ve given my time and money over the years, but there is nothing like giving something anonymously. It’s almost like a secret Santa gift. You do something, then, if possible watch the effect of your gift. It’s a wonderful feeling to help someone. To be done anywhere! Givology.org
When I began my spiritual journey, I read about all these gurus who had this incredible sense of peace and wisdom. It seemed like something that was unattainable for most people, but I have to disagree with that assumption. I do believe that we can all feel an incredible sense of peace, satisfaction, and contentment. One of the quickest ways I know of getting there is by giving. If you want to give and need some direction, please let me know @teddymcdonald
Originally published on the author’s website.
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