All Wrapped Up

This is the time of year when we slip into the zone-- you know, that place where we get caught up in the holiday festivities, last-minute shopping sprees, and the overindulgence of all things "not so good" for us.  With so much to do and so many places to be, we seldom take notice of the world around us.  If we slow down, we will find people everywhere with needs greater than our own.

From the outside, things may look fine, yet on the inside, hearts may be breaking and people may find it hard to be jolly.  They may be mourning loved ones lost, struggling to find work to pay their bills, trying to figure out what on earth they are here for, or hoping someone will invite them in for the holidays so they won't have to go it alone.

During this new season of life, I challenge you to spend less time doing and more time being available to someone who finds value in your "presence".  You can help others get their joy back by giving gifts from the heart, like a warm smile, caring words, or a listening ear.

Not sure where to look to find another in need?  For starters, just walk across the room and ask people how they are doing then listen with both ears.  "Listening", says David Augsburger, "is so close to loving, most people don't know the difference."

When you step outside of your comfort zone and reach out to others, you will discover that your one act of kindness may not only bring joy to another, it may also leave them with memories that last a lifetime.

If you really want to stretch yourself, here are some wonderful ways to help you grow: 

1) Visit a resident at a nursing home and let them reminisce about "the good old days."

2) Buy a bag of groceries for someone in need, leave it at their doorstep, then slip away unnoticed.

3) Make a hot meal and deliver it to a military family whose loved one won't be coming home or who is home and is struggling to pick up the pieces.

4) Visit a homeless shelter and spend time with those who may have nowhere to go for the holidays or, if you are an animal lover, spend some time at an animal shelter with those who may be staying "inn" for the holidays.

There is so much you can do to bring joy to another, be the gift that others so desperately need and give it away.  

Kris Anderson

Life Coach

Motivational Speaker

Comealiveandthrivewithkris.com