My dear friends,
During the holiday season, we often remind our kids that, ‘Santa is watching!’ But there’s another set of eyes observing us even more closely this time of year—the curious, impressionable eyes of our little ones and the generation to come.
As we close this series for the year, I want to invite you to stop and self-evaluate what examples are we showing the next generation. Do our actions communicate that perfection is needed to make the holiday bright? Do they see us short tempered, stressed out, or with a dreadful attitude as the holiday approaches? Do we carry a ‘gimme’ mindset? Or do they see us smiling, thanking cashiers, and finding joy in the little things? Do we let them help us bake the goodies, wrap the gifts, or help to plan the festivities of the season?
As you enjoy the days ahead, think about one small way you can include the next generation in giving, whether it’s making a care package, sharing a kind word, or simply spending time together reflecting on what you’re thankful for.
Myself and my friends at Daymaker Gifts are passionate about creating a culture of generosity in our corner of the world, establishing that culture is one thing, but maintaining a thriving culture of generosity is quite another. Ripple effects of living generously make a big impact in our communities, but when you involve, inspire, and teach the next generation to live generously as well, those ripples will continue way beyond our lifetime.
Even though the BIG day is just a mere few hours away, don’t let the true spirit of generosity die on Dec 26th. Give yourself grace. Don’t let perfection become your goal post. Remind yourself that sometimes the messiest moments are where the best memories are made. Be present, not perfect. Scatter more than you gather. Smile often. Love BIG! Give heart forward! And LIVE well!
Thank you for joining me this season in our mission to create a culture of generosity in our corner of the world. The stories of generosity you have shared with me this year are truly inspiring. It is my hope that the spirit of generosity will continue to grow and multiply well into the new year ahead.
Generosity Challenge:
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Create a “Reverse Gift Giving Jar” as a family. Rather than drawing out ideas for things you want, each family member adds one small act of kindness they can commit to over the holidays or in the coming year. Draw one out each day or week to complete together. (You can use ideas from our Generosity Bingo)
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Complete one small act of kindness (e.g., baking cookies for a neighbor, paying for someone’s coffee) and leave a simple note or card asking the recipient to “keep the ripple going” by doing something kind for someone else. (Again, you can use the Generosity Bingo cards to give you ideas--and you can cross each box off together)