Simple Ways To Lighten Christmas In Your Circles

My brother Dave was on a Holiday errand, at one point he ended up with the wrong item. He was returning it when the cashier asked if he wanted the money put back on his card. He didn’t quite understand and thought she needed his card. As he fumbled in his pocket the lady impatiently said, “Hello!”. As she sassed him he had an insight. This person has been pushed to the point of impatience.

The holidays are wonderful, a chance to give and to remember the power of the bonds of love, but it is also a hectic time of year that can stretch the best of us beyond our tensile strength.

So here is your mission if you choose to accept it. Look around your circles for that person who seems to be suffering this year.

Sometimes we hear inspiring stories of generous people who pay for everyone in a store, but what if you took a gift to the tired cashier and thanked them for their service? I know when I have felt invisible a lift like that would lighten my load.

It can be a civil servant, a mail carrier, a garbage collector, or a grounds maintenance person. If you do choose a professional take some time to see if there are restrictions for their position For example Elle Cabrera wrote an article on appropriate gifts for a mail carrier you can read here.

It doesn't have to be an opulent gift. Often a well-placed kind word will change the course of my day. I am going to try and be more verbally appreciative this year.

Speaking of small things, one year we had extra gift cards and decided to give two to the maintenance guys at the apartment complex we live in. The cards weren't that expensive, but I was amazed at how much they thanked us for a recognition of our appreciation.

This year, let's open our eyes and look for that person who seems like they have a Santa gift bag load on their shoulders and find a way to give them a lift.