Do you remember how old you were when you crossed over from thinking about the presents you were going to receive and instead thought more about those that you were going to give? As we mature, the happiness of someone else becomes the more important reward.

“If you haven’t done much giving in your life-try it and see how you feel afterwards.” ― Michelle Moore

So many of my friends have made changes in their latter day lives. Where they live, what they do all day, what’s now at the top of their to-do list. Those who seem the most content are spending their time and energies giving.

Now older and better able to give…

Their parents are aging, adult children are in transition, grandchildren need some extra love, public service is calling, time now available to devote to ministries at church. Friends and family have health issues. Travel is now possible to invest meaningful time with others. As exhausting as some of these schedules sound, there is great joy and fulfillment spilling out of their stories.

“You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.” ― Amy Carmichael

These are a stark contrast with people we all know (sometimes even ourselves) who have spent too much time focusing on what they aren’t getting out of life. Giving is always the magic secret to being happy and content. Doesn’t make sense. The more you give, the more you end up receiving.

But there are some rules to follow (I think):

• When possible, try to give anonymously
• Don’t give what you want, give what someone else truly needs
• Time is often the most generous gift
• Don’t wait for or expect a thank you – that’s not the point
• Always double check your motivations for giving
• Don’t overthink it – follow the inspiration
• Encouragement is also a gift, often at just the right time
• The best gifts are often a sacrifice to the giver
• When someone says no, please don’t ever take it personally

“The most truly generous persons are those who give silently without hope of praise or reward.” ― Carol Ryrie Brink

Someone needs your gifts

Surveys today tell us that the world has changed in many ways that are making society unhealthy. Remember that line – no man is an island – a rising tide floats all boats.

• More people are having less daily human contact
• Social media is degenerating our health at almost all levels
• Political polarization increases isolation and deteriorates our quality of life
• Declining religious participation correlates with family fragmentation, weak safety nets and declining health

Someone needs you to give of yourself, your resources, your time and love right now. There are even people who don’t realize what they need most. The wealth of your experience and generosity can make the future – even tomorrow – more possible. Just a load of laundry, a visit to the hospital or time volunteering for your family or strangers. There are a hundred reasons why you can’t. Just think about today and do or give something that might matter for one person.

When you take time to pray for someone else, that’s a gift as well.

“Do all the good you can,
by all the means you can,
in all the ways you can,
in all the places you can,
at all the times you can,
to all the people you can,
as long as ever you can”

Charles Wesley (1707-1788)