Everyone has something to give. Whether it is a special talent or a common resource there are always ways to contribute to society. But today, for National Give Something Away Day, I would like to expand on the idea of giving.
Perhaps today you could give away some physical item you are no longer needing that someone else may need. By donating this item you would be helping someone get what they may need but you would also be helping yourself in several ways. The act of giving boosts your sense of pride and connection to your community. It can improve mood and also self-image. Plus, decluttering can be a great way to clear out your space and boost your energy.
Yet there is another way of giving as a form of self-care; one that is often overlooked. What if today you gave away a grudge? What if you gave away some of the stress or worry you have been carrying? What if you laid it down, even if just for today, and allowed yourself a break?
However you choose to give today, give with love. And recognize that your gift is not just for those around you but also for yourself. You deserve this gift of giving. It is an option that is always open.
I'm grateful for the reminder to give today. I'm grateful to give a smile and a laugh. I'm grateful to give my attention to the birds playing on my deck. I'm grateful to give the stress of a long to do list over to the universe today and trust that what needs done will get done as I do my best. I'm grateful to give to those clients in need. I'm grateful to have a bag of old clothes to give to a charity that will get them to people in need. And I'm grateful to give to myself and my body the energy and nourishment I need today.
What can you give today? How can you take pride in giving? How can you embrace the beauty of giving for your own self-care?
May today bless us with generous hearts. May we remember ourselves in our generous acts. May we find a way to lay down our stress and give ourselves the nourishment and love we each deserve. Have a beautiful day!