Get into GIVING!

“For it is in giving that we receive.” ― St. Francis of Assisi

This is the time of year when everyone starts to reflect on the things for which they are thankful. I hear people mention all sorts of things, but most of them revolve around friends, family, personal growth and occasionally material possessions. I think it’s great to be appreciative of all the things and people we have in our lives, but we often overlook being grateful for the things that we’re able to give to enhance the lives of others. Basically, say THANKS for the gift of GIVING.

There are a few aspects to giving that make me see it as a gift. The first is simple. I believe it’s a blessing. Knowing that God chose me to be a vessel to bless someone else is a source of pride and experiencing their unbridled gratitude is one of great humility. Being able to give something to someone else means  that you had to be blessed to have it in the first place. You can’t give something that you don’t have. And this isn’t only about material things; I’m talking about sharing a piece of you. Maybe you’re funny and can make someone laugh on a bad day. You could be a good listener and your listening ear helped ease the feeling of loneliness for a friend. The final and most satisfying aspect of giving that I enjoy is being able to make someone happy. It makes me happy. It kills two birds with one stone. Things can’t get much better than that.

The more I think about it, I believe that being able to do for others is the thing that I’m most thankful for. Besides my family and friends, I haven’t experienced a greater joy than bringing joy to someone else. So if you’re taking some time to reflect on the things in your life that you appreciate most, consider the feeling you get when you think about all of the things that bring you joy. Then consider what it will feel like to give that same feeling to someone else.

-Tiffany Vicks