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The Gift of Giving

By Cindy Prosor

It’s that time of year again to remember those who we care about with gift giving. I have been thinking a lot about just that. It’s my idea that with the present global challenges, it might be nice to look at gift giving in another way this year. Not that giving and receiving objects is ‘bad’ (I certainly love to give and receive objects), but during this time of global stress, why not give a gift that will help to make a real impact. If you feel financially challenged during this time, you could give a gift of service and time. Maybe even begin a new tradition.

This could be a wonderful opportunity to strengthen a relationship with someone you care about.

• Is there someone you care about who could use your expertise in some area in their life?
• Do you know someone who could use some decluttering or office organizing?
• Is there a sewing, gardening or repair project that you could do for someone on your list?

Last year my daughter’s boyfriend Jon, spent 3 days with me cleaning up my computer, taking off old programs I wasn’t using and lots more, so that it now runs like new again! Besides the fact that he saved me hundreds of dollars we got to spend some precious time together. It’s been almost one year since then and I think of him every day I turn my computer on. (Great guy, huh?!)

Another idea is to take your love and desire to give and ‘pay it forward’ by giving a gift to someone in need. Give in a way that can have an impact on the world of others with a gift that also honors your friends and family.

If you want to make it personal, ask yourself what your recipient’s passions are.

• Are they animal or children lovers?
• Do they belong to an organization or club that takes donations?
• Could their school or community use some help?

Some of organizations that I am giving to this year are:

Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States. For more than a century, they have been developing positive relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people. Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors children, ages 6 through 18, in communities across the U.S.A.
http://www.bbbs.org/

P.E.O. is an international philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans, and stewardship of Cottey College; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.
http://www.peointernational.org/

Imagine giving those in need an opportunity to lift themselves out of poverty. Below are several organizations that can help you to do just that.

Heifer helps children and families around the world receive training and animal gifts that help them become self-reliant.
http://www.heifer.org/

Just like my child is a remarkable organization helping thousands of orphans in Uganda, East Africa receive(s) health care, nutrition, and education. Your donation in a loved one’s name will make an enormous difference and fill the lives of thousands of children with hope.
http://www.justlikemychild.com/

The Humane Society of the United States

The SPCA in New Zealand

Animal Welfare in Australia

Imagine the impact it would have on the planet if everyone chose to give in this way! There would be less stuff and more love, compassion, co-operation and sharing. Now that’s what I call the spirit of the holidays!

I’ve been thinking about what I could give to each one of you to make a difference in your life. I do appreciate how many of you have supported me through out the year. Please accept my new mini e-course ‘7 Biggest Feng Shui Secrets to Creating Abundance, Better Relationships and Radiant Health’ I look forward to hearing how your implementing these secrets helps you to create a powerful 2009!

I’d love to hear about your gift ideas or what you think about my mini e-course. Please share your thoughts and ideas on my blog.

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