The Gift of Giving

During this time of year, it is always so easy to get caught up in the Holiday craze, commercialized propaganda, and lure of all things shiny and new. I'll admit, my Christmas list was quite elaborate this year, as there are many high priced tangibles that I would be thrilled to receive. However, in the midst of the merry madness, I also find myself more eager to find ways to give. For me, Christmas is more than a few presents and a plate full of cookies, Christmas symbolizes the most sacred gift to all of mankind and it is extremely important to me that I can find a way to honor and reciprocate the spirit of giving during this time.

For awhile, Toly and I have been discussing the idea of giving a portion of our income to a charitable organization. The only problem we had was deciding which one we wanted to participate in. After doing some research, we finally decided to become Partners of Hope for The St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Each month, we will make a donation that will go directly to the research of terminal illness and funding for medical treatment for these children so that no child is ever denied. We will also receive letters and pictures each month, from children who we have helped.

What a gratifying reward! Toly and I know that we have been blessed well beyond our needs and it is truly the very least we can do to share some of our blessings with others who are in need. If you are able to make any kind of charitable donation this holiday season, I strongly encourage you to give this some thought. It doesn't have to be much; every little penny makes a significant difference to those who have next to nothing. Think of how fortunate you are for the things that you have and see those things as a blessing, not as an expectation. I promise the experience of giving is entirely uplifting and worthwhile.

There are countless ways that you can give and even so many right in our very own blogsphere.