Christmas is filled with magic from tiny elves with pointy ears, to flying reindeer with clever names, to a jolly old man who delivers gifts to children all around the world. This day commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is celebrated each and every year. Whether or not you honour the day with a visit to church, you can still enjoy the holiday magic that it provides. Here are a few ideas to experience the magic of Christmas this year by giving to the people around you.
Hostess Gifts
If you receive invitations to holiday parties, bring the hostess an unusual gift. Rather than opting for the traditional bottle of wine or basket of holiday cookies, why not bring a book of holiday poems or a snow globe filled with holiday cheer?
Elderly Neighbours
While they might have their own families who intend to visit, elderly neighbours often don't receive many visitors, no matter what time of year it is. Consider organizing a singing group to serenade your elderly neighbours with Christmas carols. Instead of expecting a cup of hot chocolate for your efforts, bring along a picnic basket filled with freshly baked cookies and a thermos of chocolatey goodness.
Food Pantries
Keeping the local food pantry full is a year-long effort. During the holidays, however, the pantry cupboards begin to empty out quickly. Since you know other people will contribute items from the pantry's request list of turkey, cranberries, and stuffing mix, consider donating unusual items. Things to consider include ready-to-eat puddings, Christmas cookies, chewing gum, candy canes, and treats for the pets.
Local Schools
Whether the school is private or public in nature, funds are often limited. Consider calling up the principal and asking if you can donate money that can be used to purchase candy canes for all of the children. Other items that might be just as appreciated by the kids include holiday pencils or colouring books.
Local Animal Shelters
What could be lonelier for abandoned pups and kittens than to spend a few weeks in the local animal shelter? If you have the room, adopt a new pet. Not only will the staff at the shelter rejoice, but your family will love you for it.
The Homeless
Whether you live in a city or in a rural area, you are likely to know of an area where the homeless spend their time. Gather up unwanted blankets, coats, gloves, hats, boots, and socks and bring them to these individuals to help keep them warm and comfortable throughout the long winter. Alternatively, you might want to consider donating to the local soup kitchen to bring the warmth of the holiday to those who are struggling to survive.
Christmas is a time for many things, including reflection, praying, sharing, laughing, singing, loving, eating, and being merry. If you love this magical season, why not make it even more enjoyable by coming up with ways to share the holiday spirit. Share what you have, give what you can, and embrace your ability to do so.
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