Must admit I had mixed feelings when it came to the word GIVING. Could've be a reflection of my misgivings with regards to Consumerism or possibly even an indication that I was not giving enough myself. As I grew I realised that my doubts laid in the expectations of reciprocation behind gift giving and not the act of giving itself. Slowly my definition of giving changed and it evolved into a much broader concept, if you like. The act of giving transcended coloured wrapping paper and ribbons and instead grew into giving what is dear to you. Be it time, a helping hand or even a smile - and that appealed to me. It still does.
My gracious friend Nicole Graham sent me an e-mail a couple of days ago about a 29 day-giving challenge. She already started her challenge the beginning of this month and I've started mine today. In short for the next 29 days (loving the 29 days since it really ingrains a new or refreshed habit of giving) we'll give something to others. Your gift could be anything really, from giving money for a cause that appeals to you to offering advice to someone struggling at the office - the possibilities are endless. Have a look at the website for more information - great clip on the woman who got the ball rolling and gave back what she was "gifted" by turning it into a global challenge. She was aiming for 2,000 people to sign up for the challenge and the last time I looked there were already 2,300 givers worldwide.
I leave you with one of my favourite passages from "The Prophet" on you guessed it; Giving.
"There are those who give little of the much which they have - and they give it for recognition and their hidden desire makes their gifts unwholesome.
And there are those who have little and give it all.
These are the believers in life and the bounty of life, and their coffer is never empty."
