The joy of Christmas is one of life’s most magical experiences. However, not everyone feels it. Share your goodwill so others can enjoy the holiday wonder.
“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” – Norman Vincent Peale.
Some of my most vivid and satisfying memories involve Christmas. However, decorating, baking, hosting, and frantic shopping are no longer a big part of the holiday equation. But I still feel the spirit of Christmas. I hope you do, too.
So, here are some thoughts to help you and others you care about find and feel the magic. Make life magical.
Spread the Joy of Christmas: Simple Ways
Someone you love wants to feel the joy of Christmas. Even if they say otherwise, everyone can appreciate an outpouring of love, laughter, kindness, and shared time. These are gifts of unexpected delight that surround the holiday and infuse it with indelible memories.
But how do you help yourself and others experience this magic? Consider these simple yet effective ways to create joy in your life and spread Christmas cheer.
Give a Little to Mean a Lot
Christmas gift-giving should be more about kindness and generosity, and less about expectations. When you think about it, isn’t the spirit of Christmas one of spreading peace and goodwill? So, give yourself the gift of compassion by giving a little to those who need it most. This small gift means a lot to the less fortunate.
- Food banks need non-perishable food items, especially during the winter months. Christmas is a great time to go through your pantry and find cans and shelf-stable foods to donate.
- Also, what about the still-usable, almost-new, or gently worn clothing in your closets? Linens, household goods, and other items are things others can really use. Besides, they’re just cramming your living space. Why not help others and bring a smile to their faces?
- One of my favorite organizations is Habitat for Humanity. A recent purchase of a stand-up desk means I have a spare solid oak desk to donate. While the holiday pickup days are unavailable, I have a date in early January. This is a gift someone can really use, as it’s in excellent condition. So, it is a win for the ultimate recipient, and I feel good giving it.
Thoughtful Gifts Help Spread the Joy of Christmas
When you do give someone a gift, it doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive, rare, or hard to find. Think of the recipient and what they enjoy. If you can find some small item that reflects their pastime, hobby, interest, or likes, that’s an excellent way to bring joy to their holiday.
- One of our dear neighbors lost her son recently. I know she is going through a tough time, and I want to give her something small to help ease the pain. Among my treasures are some exquisite photography frames. So, I plan to bring one or two to her to put on top of her baby grand piano, and she can use them for family photos.
Bring a Meal to Someone Who Lives Alone
Every neighborhood has someone who lives alone. The holidays may be a particularly lonely time for them. Another simple way to help them experience the joy of Christmas is to share time with you.
However, you may not know them well enough, or they may not be up for a visit. You can still brighten their Christmas by bringing them a meal. This could be something you buy from a restaurant, or you can prepare a plate from your family’s holiday meal.
Share a Kindness to Spread the Joy of Christmas
Simple acts of kindness go a long way. It costs you nothing, yet yields tremendous emotional gifts. When you do something kind for another, you both benefit. The giver feels good, and you feel grateful.
- The counter person at one of my go-to restaurants did not charge me for a pastry. I felt joy and bought something else to show my appreciation. Such an unexpected, yet thoughtful act of kindness. Furthermore, I’m seeing more of this lately. Perhaps it’s the sharing of Christmas spirit?
- However, it doesn’t have to be a purchase. A driver in a pickup truck made way for me to enter a lane when the roadway was packed with cars. This tiny act of kindness shows how simply you can spread holiday spirit.
- Also, you could consider calling your loved ones and singing a holiday song. If they’re not able to be with you, how about singing a carol from past Christmas get-togethers? This is similar to singing Happy Birthday, but from a holiday perspective.
- If singing’s not your style, reminisce about holidays past. Or engage in conversation and see where it goes. The time spent with your loved ones this way is priceless. But it’s also an incredible way to experience the joy of Christmas.
