what will you give this year?

This time of year I become very introspective. I've done a lot of thinking lately about how I can better affect the lives of those around me. I've got lots of ideas, but like that ever so known song sung mostly at high school football games I say in my head, "Action, Action, we want Action"! Telling yourself you'll do something, & actually doing it are two totally different things.

I wonder how our lives could change if we looked a little more outside of ourselves & our own desires & feelings. If we gave an outstretched hand a little more often. Or a listening ear when someone has something they need to say.

I constantly wonder if I am listening for little indications of what people need. It's not always big. Sometimes infact, it's little simple things that take very little time, thought or preparation. It's the note in the mail, the text message to check up on someone, it's the smile to an elderly person or a child that is upset. For me, it's the sense of knowing. Knowing that my thoughts, desires & yearnings, even pleadings to the Lord are being heard. He has answered so many of my prayers, deep longings through others, those around me & even strangers.

So as we approach Christmas this week, my question to you is this. What will you give this Christmas? Will you give pretty packages of toys, clothing or trinkets to those you love, Yes! Most of us will, but what more can you do?

Here are some fun ideas!

- Be a little more patient in traffic.
- Be the happy one in the long lines at the grocery store.
- Help someone clean their home in preparation for guests.
- Take a friend to do a fun Christmas activity.
- Call someone you've been thinking of.
- Help someone with their laundry.
- Go sit & visit with someone that in home bound.
- Go to the post office or pharmacy for someone.
- If your going to the store, see if someone needs something while you're out.
- Pick up someone favorite drink from Sonic & take it to them!!
- Pay someone a genuine compliment.
- Spend quality time with a child.
- Take treats to someone.
- Help someone wrap their Christmas gifts.

And, here is a beautiful message shared by the prophet I believe in & love so much.