“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Before we get into today’s article I just have to mention this past holiday. For years I have seen Christmas items show up in stores earlier and earlier. It’s become a commercial bonanza. Why not just skip Halloween and Thanksgiving and cut to the chase? We can start putting up our trees around mid-October.
Well this year was the start of what will probably become Black Friday week. It IS … called Black “Friday.” We don’t recognize Good Friday on Tuesday to start the Easter celebration early? What’s next? Labor Day Sales start the last Monday of August?
I was saddened that people wanted to spend more time waiting in line and buying “stuff” than hanging with their family on a day we are supposed to give thanks and share with loved ones. Call me old-fashioned, old-school or outdated. I hope it helps our economy but isn’t Thanksgiving about family, not shopping for family?
However, if you were buying items to donate that is a different situation, which is the whole reason I wanted to write about giving back during the holidays.
With the damage from the storms in the Northeast, difficult economic times for some and the wonderful Toys for Tots programs the Marines organize, people do need help.
During Thanksgiving to Christmas is a great time to collect and donate food to local food banks. Maybe even dish out some food and witness the relief and joy it will bring the recipient and yourself.
Did you know that giving back or volunteering to help people is contagious and it offers you personal health benefits?
Around 30 percent of adults volunteer in one way or another and on a consistent basis. One study found that when people helped one another the portion of the brain that expresses joy would light up and release feel good chemicals into the body. Pretty cool!
Many people also find that they are happier, have purpose and find doing something nice for others is just rewarding.
A study of 2000 churchgoers found they had better mental health due to offering support and love for others. Some believe that by not being so inner focused on your own situation and thinking about someone else’s diminishes your problems.
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