*The Gift of Love And Kindness*

(Magic Moon Light Studio Free Images)

Anyone who claims that they don't enjoy receiving presents, regardless of what the occasion may be, whether it's Christmas or a birthday, is either in denial, a "bah-hum-bugger", or they are most likely being dishonest. I am not ashamed to admit that I adore getting gifts. I still get just as much of a kick out of opening presents on Christmas as I did when I was a kid, granted, I have been aware of the truth about where and who they come from since I was around the age of 7. I also confess, that I still look at all the tags on all of the packages under the tree, to see which ones have my name on them, and occasionally, I even shake them and try to figure out what's inside.

Does this make me greedy or am I just a gift opening enthusiast? I suppose I can be a little greedy at times, but I am human and I hardly think I am the only one who shares this trait. It doesn't make you a bad person, just because you enjoy the whole gift exchanging process. How can you not get just a tad bit excited when you open a gift from your son or daughter, especially when it is one that they put so much love and thought into. Is it wrong to be appreciative of the clothing, the bling, the gift cards, the nice sum of money you get from your parents or grandparents? With the economic struggles many of us are dealing with, these are things that may be very much needed and it means a lot knowing that the person who gives you those items understands and has your back.

Getting is always great, but Christmas is not just about getting, Christmas is also about giving. While I do enjoy ripping into those packages, at the same time I am heartbroken over the idea of a child not getting to experience such a magical and special celebration. All children should get a visit from Santa, they should all have presents to rip into on Christmas morning. The honest truth is that not everyone can afford to give as much as they would love to be able to. I was on a tight budget this year and after getting all of my Christmas shopping done I am pretty much spent for a while. I have set a goal though, next year I am going to help out a family in need.

If you can afford to give, you have no reason not to, it doesn't matter if it is a complete stranger or someone you know personally. If you can find a way to bring some cheer to someones Christmas, then I hope you will find it in your heart to do so. If you can't, it is completely understandable, I'm not going to judge you as long as your heart is in the right place and your reasons for not helping is not because you are a selfish individual. There are plenty of other ways to give to someone that doesn't entail going to the mall, or spending any money at all. There are things that can bring just as much joy to a person on Christmas that won't cost you a single penny, presents that will mean so much more to them than any store bought gift.

Do something nice for your mom and dad, especially if your mom is as amazing and as nurturing as mine is (not to brag, but she is awesome). If you have a friend who is going through a rough patch, be there for that friend...make sure they aren't spending the Holidays alone. Visit your local nursing home and spend some time with the elderly, they get very lonely this time of year and love having people to talk to. If a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker or someone you know doesn't have anyone to celebrate Christmas with, maybe you could find it in your heart to make room at your table for another friend or two. No one should ever have to be alone on Christmas or any Holiday.

There is a lot you can do to give to others, but the best gifts you could ever give to anyone and everyone is love and kindness.