{"id":2731,"date":"2011-12-23T00:00:21","date_gmt":"2011-12-23T05:00:21","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.beliefnet.com\/haveamagnificentday\/?p=2731"},"modified":"2011-12-22T19:09:00","modified_gmt":"2011-12-23T00:09:00","slug":"holiday-spirit-the-spirit-of-giving","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beliefnet.com\/columnists\/haveamagnificentday\/2011\/12\/holiday-spirit-the-spirit-of-giving.html","title":{"rendered":"Holiday Spirit – The Spirit of Giving"},"content":{"rendered":"

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What is the true essence of the holidays?
\nWhat is most important during this time of year?
\nIt is a time for giving, loving and sharing.
\nIt is a time to be thankful and grateful for all of our blessings.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is a time for being with the people you love.<\/span>
\n Sharing time with family and friends.<\/span>
\n But are you sharing quality time?<\/span><\/p>\n

So many of us are rushing around and caught up in the holiday hype.<\/span>
\n Take a breath, take another one or two and let go.<\/span>
\n All you have to do is smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

There are people all around you who would greatly benefit from your sincere smile.<\/span>
\nA kind word, a small gesture, just taking a moment to acknowledge another person with a smile.<\/span>
\nThe best gift you can give to anyone is the authentic you – your presence!<\/span><\/p>\n

The true holiday spirit is one of kindness,<\/span> compassion and caring.<\/span>
\nWe all want to be acknowledged, recognized and appreciated.<\/span>
\nDon’t allow yourself to be so focused on the food, parties and gifts that you neglect to take care of people around you.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is easy to focus on the gifts and the celebration.<\/span>
\n Make sure the people feel your love and encouragement.<\/span>
\n People always remember how you made them feel, long after the gifts are gone.<\/span><\/p>\n

There are so many little ways that you can let someone know you care.<\/span>
\n You do not have to buy expensive gifts or spend a lot of money.<\/span>
\n It just takes sincerity and intention and comes through loud and clear and goes directly into their hearts.<\/span><\/p>\n

Share a meal together, sit by the fire, hold hands, take a walk in nature or listen to good music.<\/span>
\nThis creates a nice energy when your heart and presence is there.<\/span>
\nBeing present and in the moment allows you to truly connect with people.<\/span>
\nThis is the best way for you to share your greatest gift with others – give them the total you!<\/span><\/p>\n

Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday Weekend!<\/span><\/p>\n

smiles,<\/span>
\n\ud83d\ude42 Lee<\/span>
\nThe Mega Coach<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Enjoy this great video of people sharing joy with others:
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