Giving in Down Times and 29 Gifting Outside the Box Ideas
Sometimes, when the news all seems to be bad, when the bank account is running low, when our emotional stores are feeling empty, it is more difficult to feel generous. We find ourselves in a state of scarcity, clutching desperately to what we have, holding it closer and struggling with the concept of giving anything away. In the present economy, many people are stuck in this cycle of scarcity and fear. These are the times when giving can be most important, and can have the greatest positive influence on our state of mind.
By giving of ourselves when we feel least equipped to do so, we create an attitude of abundance that resonates around us. Through our generosity, we are made aware of others' gratitude; mindful giving causes us to be more aware of our own value. This awareness, in turn, bolsters our emotional bank account so we are more likely to continue to feel connected to the bigger picture that exists beyond our own personal circumstances.
The most important thing to remember is that it makes no difference what our esteemable acts are. Whether we drop a coin in a stranger's expired parking meter, or give a lavish gift to a loved one, the potential is the same. It is the thoughtfulness that causes the psychic shift that allows us to recognize that we live abundant lives even in the toughest of times. It is in that moment of intention that we recognize our connection to one another and to the divine spark that allows us to share our gifts. We generate a creative energy from which the Universe creates everything from nothing.
Remember during December we are encouraging you to Gift Outside the Box. Try to give without spending money. Here are some low- or no-cost giving ideas. Please comment to add your ideas.
WHAT "COUNTS" AS A GIFT? Gifts can be ANYTHING you offer with mindfulness and positive intention. Clean out your closets and give away clothes, shoes or handbags. Give material items, like money or food. Give time, smiles, compliments or simple prayers. Read to your child. Play with your dog. Pet your cat. Pay for someone's coffee or lunch. Don't forget to make some art and write stories about your #29Gifts experience and share them at www.29gifts.org
GREAT GIVEAWAYS WANTED Are you an artist, author or business owner who would like to share your gifts or services with our community? Contact Community Manager Melanie Peters to sponsor your own great giveaway. Past member giveaways include paintings, photographs, crafts, books, gift cards, greeting cards, jewelry, specialty teas, clothing, accessories and more.
HELP US GROW We encourage you to invite friends to join you at www.29gifts.org. Please also "Like" and share our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/29gifts. Use the tag #29gifts on your social media messages about giving and gratitude. Follow Cami on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/camillaswalker. Use our free downloadable Gift Tags by clicking on Documents.
SUPPORT 29 GIFTS Giving is our goal at www.29gifts.org. To help in our mission you can support 29 Gifts. Sign up for free, then click on the “Upgrade Your Membership” link in the upper right-hand corner of the 29 Gifts Home Page for details. By making your voluntary contribution, you help us revive the giving spirit in our world. Be a change maker and support 29 Gifts.
CALL FOR PERSONAL ESSAY SUBMISSIONS 29 Life Lessons: Reflections On Living and Giving is the much anticipated sequel to Cami Walker’s New York Times best-selling self-help memoir, 29 Gifts: How A Month of Giving Can Change Your Life. 29 Life Lessons includes personal stories from Walker and members of the 29 Gifts global community, self-help prompts, and creative giving tips. Get details and submission guidelines here. http://follr.com/Communities/29Gifts/ViewPost/74108
PRAYER CAFÉ Being part of a community is a wonderful opportunity to give to those in need but to also ask for help and support. If you or someone you care about is in need of prayers or positive thoughts, please share on the Prayer Café discussion board.
