Are You Living to Give?

"You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give."

~ Winston Churchill ~

What have you given lately? A while back I posted on my Facebook page on the importance of giving to those in need. I'm not only talking about your annual giving to the Red Cross, United Way, your church or other organization. While these are all wonderful, charitable organizations that I support - I'm talking a little more grassroots. Stand outside your home - think about your neighbors on either side, down the block, across the street - what could they use help with? Who in your family is going through a rough time, facing an illness or job loss? Who do you know that is elderly and could use help paying for medicines, getting around, or has some long overdue housecleaning that's needed?

A lot of times we operate in our own little bubble - my four and no more, when all around us there are those whose day would be brighter with the smallest gesture on our part.

If you have the means, there are many ways you can help someone in your circle who has a need. I had a friend once who actually wrote it in her calendar to help at least one person each week. Now, your assistance doesn't have to be financial - labor is often worth just as much as your cash. 

Here are a few small ways to be a beacon of light....

• When you go grocery shopping each week, just add a few items to give away. This way you aren't trying to buy all at one time or...
• Buy a grocery gift card for someone
• Purchase a pack of diapers or low cost baby clothes for a single/teen mom
• Volunteer to do the yard work for an elderly person who doesn't have much help 
• Offer to run errands for an elderly or disabled person who may not get around as well
• Buy gas cards for people you know who could use a little help financially when you go to the pump
• Offer to help a child with tutoring in a subject they struggle with
• Know anyone who is in the hospital or home ill? Take time to visit and chat with them for more than 20 minutes. Take magazines and food they like.
• Help send a student to camp

One thing I've learned over the years is that often when you ask people if they need help they'll say no.  They don't want to impose and pride can keep people from admitting they need help. That's understandable, so like Nike says.. JUST DO IT! Most will be relieved and elated you thought of them. 

This is a short list of things we all can do to help others - what would you add? What have you done in the past? Most importantly... how happy was the person on the receiving end of your kindness?

Wishing you the best, 

-Dorethia

www.connercoaching.com