Christmas Time, Giving and Showing Appreciation

Christmas time is one of my favorite times of year. However, for most people, Christmas time is a stressful time of year. I've heard people say, "Thank goodness that it is over." Christmas is about so much more than just materialism. We know what Christmas is about but Christmas is also about giving and helping others. It's about spending time with your loved ones. It's about accepting love, gifts or help with the upmost appreciation. And that is exactly what this post is about today. Appreciation. How do you react when someone gives you a gift that you really don't like or perhaps, it isn't for you?

Regardless of what kind of gift you receive, always show appreciation and always say thank you. Sure, you have the right to exchange it in those long lines after Christmas, or perhaps, you can regift it to someone who may not have really had much going on at Christmas. Gift giving isn't always easy for some but those gifts come with good intentions and from the heart so always, always, always be thankful.

All gifts should be exciting and any gift that you are given should always be special to you because someone took their hard earned money and thought to get you something so always be appreciative. Don't ever feel bad if you didn't get the other person something or if you perhaps didn't get them the same amount of gifts as they may have gotten for you. Accept help and accept the gift of receiving. Help others when you are able and allow others to help you when you are able. When you accept this as your mindset, Christmas won't be as stressful for you and you will absolutely enjoy this wonderful holiday even more. Be humble. Be kind. This is what Christmas is about.

Teach your children the same principles. Christmas isn't about getting that new play station or having 1,000 gifts under the tree. Christmas should be about giving. Don't be in competition with other parents. Always pay it forward. Help the less fortunate when you can.