Presents Or Presence? Which Gift Is The Most Priceless?

Old Mother Hubbard went to the cupboard to get her poor dog a bone, when she got there, the cupboard was bare. And so her poor dog got none.

Do you remember the old nursery rhymes from Mother Goose? Does your cupboard feel bare? How about your bank account? What about your wallet? Are you dreading gift gifting time because you used to give such wonderful gifts and you are afraid others will expect it of you this year?

Gifts of the Heart

Are you looking for something to give that special person on your list? Instead of shopping the mall for another doodad, how about turning inward to gifts of the heart? The best present you can give anyone is unconditional love and acceptance. People who matter want or need your presence in their life much more than they want or need a present.
Invite friends and family to dinner, even if it is Mac and Cheese on mismatched plates. Write love letters. Give coupon books. Set an example by honestly admitting, "I'm broke this year, and I don't want to incur any more debt, let's skip exchanging presents, and give gifts of service or time."

Some Have Money, Not All Are Rich

There are people who have money and then there are people who are rich. Poverty has never been cured with a dose of money. The only way to cure a feeling of lack, which is a state of mind, is through a change of attitude. We have all been broken, either financially, physically or spiritually at one time or another and we may be again at some time. It's not a fun place to visit, so do you really want to live there?

You have within you the perfect gift for those you love. It is a gift of self and a sharing of the spirit of the you they love. You have been given the opportunity to change traditions and teach the people in your circle of caring about gifts of the heart.

Explain early and explain often (which is much different than making excuses) that you are going to be giving gifts of the heart and would like to receive them also.

Celebrate Creativity

This year adopt an attitude of truly celebrating the occasions of life. Give a gift of your time and talent and ask others to reciprocate. Being totally present in your interactions with others is the best gift you could ever give. Make this a season of service, joy and non-judgment of everyone, including you.
After all sharing generously our gifts of spirit is what the holidays are all about.