"Giving time of Year"

I just wrote a message to a dear friend thanking her for a homemade gift. I ended it with, "I hope you get back in life what you give". This woman is an inspiration. We met through paddling, and she is well into her 80s. She is a giver; she never misses a thing and always does her part and more. She is one of those people that you can always count on. Her wisdom and knowledge are unbelievable. She has led an exciting life of travel and living in foreign countries. She shares stories with such a tremendous recall of years and places. She always has a big smile and even bigger laugh and heart. She is the queen of giving more than she will ever get back in life. Most people her age are unable to give like they used to. It is their time to be on the receiving end of giving.   

I am sure without a minute's hesitation everyone could name someone that gives more than what they will ever get back in life. The way they conduct their lives is an inspiration to others. Givers have a deep sense of obligation to help others, that is simply who they are.   

It seems the busier life gets the more important a gift of time becomes. A gift of time comes in a variety of ways, but the best seems to be spending time together with a friend or family. To catch up with an old friend says to them, you are someone that has always been important in my life. The people that give that simple hello or a smile to someone may be just what they need to make their day so much better. The gift of time is a gift that keeps on giving.   

I am a project kind of person. I could never do what I do without the support and giving from my tribe. I reach out to them, and with no questions asked, they are there for me, they never disappoint. I hope they get back what they give because they are making a difference. 

                                        

Giving comes in a variety of ways. I enjoy giving; there is just so much struggle in the world, I want to help in any small way. Everyone has a place that is near and dear to them and they focus their giving there. I am not a person that writes cheques, but I do appreciate those that do. It is definitely easier to give a material or financial gift. A heartfelt message stands out in my mind as the gift of love and appreciation. When a person is in their darkest days, receiving gifts of love and support helps them move forward. Praying for another person is a beautiful gift of caring. 

It is the Christmas season, and we automatically make a list of the things we have to buy. The older we get we come to realize, it is not only about the gift under the tree. My dad set out on a quest to help mankind, and I had a wonderful role model to watch and learn from. As 2025 comes to an end, just think of the ways you are going to continue to give and remember others. Be proud of what you give to others, you are making someone's life better, you are making a difference.