I love the holiday season most of all because it reminds me that deep within all of us is the desire to give in order to make someone’s life a little better.
As a kid, throughout the month of December, egged on by the amazing brilliance of the advent calendar that popped out a new little gift every day, I would ask myself the question: “What do I want for Christmas?” Of course, it always had to do with someone giving me stuff; and, even as I grew up, it was easy to continue that line of thinking – thinking about what gifts you’d hope to receive from others. A few days ago, my mother gave me the good advice that being able to give is a bigger gift than anything you can receive. This woke me up and shook me about. I was reminded that I am so blessed to have so much to give.
So the new question to myself this holiday season is: “What do I want to give for Christmas?”
My answer this year is: The gift of time. I’m heading off to Bangkok to spend time with my mum. Over the past two years, I’ve dedicated most of my time to growing myself and my company, never leaving enough time to take a trip to see my mum. It’s the biggest gift I can think of to give her, and I know that I will enjoy it way more than anything I will receive this year.
To pass on the good vibes, my question to you is: “What do you want to give this holiday season?”
To inspire you, here’s what some of my team has to say (in 140 characters):
Alex – “I’ve been cooking for people – I really enjoy taking care of people in that way – cooking Thanksgiving dinner for 12 people was the start!“
Dana – “Random acts of kindness: Holding doors, letting others jump ahead of me in line, and finding other simple ways to make someone’s day better.“
Andrew – “Chores. My wife and I are expecting a baby in January, so this holiday season I’m doing more around the house, so my wife can rest and prepare for the birth.”
Joe – “A former co-worker and friend is fighting leukemia and has maxed out his insurance. I will give what I can to help pay his medical bills.“
Thomas – “Want to work pro bono for something! No really – need to walk the talk with giving back. Will definitely do a mentorship, or volunteer on a project.”
Jared – “Going a little bit further for those of my friends, loved ones and neighbors who are in need.”
Jie - “Be with family and friends I haven’t seen for more than three years. Cook for my parents and brother.”
“What do you want to give this holiday season?” Let us know by tweeting us @catchafire.
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Tags: Competition, Season of Giving
