Celebrating the True Meaning of the Holidays

Are you worried about the way the holiday season is becoming so commercialized? Are you wondering what to do that reminds others of the true meaning of the holidays? Here are some ideas that may help.

•  Go ahead and buy some gifts, maybe a few toys for the kids, but let them pick out a few to give to a homeless shelter or to a local toy drive. This will teach them the meaning of generosity and compassion for others who are less fortunate. 
•   Donate to a food drive. Many businesses have drop boxes where one can leave individual items, or even at grocery stores, purchase sealed bags of groceries with various staple items and necessities. The contents depend upon the price of the bag and this can vary widely depending on the store. Locally, I've seen them range from $5.00 to $50.00.
• Make a gift basket of baked goods and jams or jellies, candy and a nice homemade card and then take it to an elderly neighbor who may be alone over the holidays. (If possible, make sure the foods you put in the basket are not a health risk to the person.) A fruit basket might be a better choice.
• Are you handy with a crochet hook or knitting needles? Make hats, scarves, gloves, or perhaps an afghan and donate them to a clothing drive. Get your children involved by letting them choose some of the colors, or better yet, if they are also able to crochet and knit, have them make some of the items.
• Take your children to visit a nursing home. Call ahead to make arrangements with the director so that those who may be immune-compromised are not around the visitation area.  Take some blankets or cookies and perhaps sing some Christmas carols with the residents.
• Volunteer as a bell ringer with the Salvation Army. You can take your kids along to help. I've seen volunteers singing carols while they rang the bell. It was entertaining and I saw a lot of people dropping money into the kettle.
• Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Some families make this a family tradition. It helps children to be more thankful for what they have.

I hope you find these ideas useful.

Have a safe and happy holiday season, no matter what you are celebrating