Generosity
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Some thoughts on gifting
“Giving doesn’t impoverish us; it makes us richer.” ~Martha Beck, The Way of Integrity Who doesn’t enjoy getting presents? There are many different gifting styles and practices — and psychotherapists have some interesting theories on that. Some people get a thrill out of selecting the perfect presents for their loved ones, while others simply don’t express their affection with material things. I know many people who discourage gift-giving because they don’t want to feel obligated to reciprocate. Others don’t have a budget to buy gifts, but will gladly receive them. All said and done, the gifts we treasure come from the heart — or are made by hand. A dear…
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Why helpers are luckier
“You can get everything in life you want — if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” ~Zig Ziglar The phrase “paying it forward” — helping others without expecting anything in return — is practically a cliche now. But there’s something to it. I’ve discovered over the years that whenever I do nice things for others (or help them out of a bind) my life magically improves, too. Helping other people adds to our own happiness, opens new doors, and even improves our health and wellbeing. In other words, generosity may look altruistic but it’s actually self-serving — in a good way. Life isn’t a competition.…
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Playing from the heart
“If I am smart in business, it’s just that I’m smart about who I am. I know what I can, can’t, will, and won’t do. And if I have to be strict about that, I will.” ~Dolly Parton I’ve always admired Dolly Parton. Not necessarily because of her musical talents — although it’s worth noting that she can play close to 20 instruments, including the fiddle, mandolin and pan-flute. Even with those long acrylic fingernails. I get a kick out of her over-the-top wardrobe, personality, and showmanship. As Dolly’s quote reminds us, it takes a huge helping of self-confidence to pull it off. But what impresses me even more is her…
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The gift of your attention
“Nothing you can give will ever be more appreciated than your sincere, focused attention—your full presence. Truly being with someone, and listening without a clock and without anticipation of the next event, is the ultimate compliment.” ~Marc Chernoff, Marc & Angel Hack Life This week, I’ve been preoccupied with last-minute holiday shopping. Should I bring a dessert or an appetizer to a Christmas Eve party? What about hostess gifts? Should I buy something else for our Christmas morning brunch? Did I forget to treat a friend? And do I have enough presents for my three-year-old grandson who also has a birthday this week? Then I ran across today’s quote —…
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The light of gratitude
“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” ~Albert Schweitzer Gratitude lists are a big part of the community journaling workshops I teach periodically — and I try to practice what I preach. One of my favorite exercises is to jot down the names of everyone, past and present, who made a difference in my life. My family doctor — who retires this month — is at the top of my list. I wouldn’t be walking pain-free today if it weren’t for his care…
