Several of you last week clicked through to view my updated webpage www.alwaysharriet.com and you probably viewed the introductory slide show. If not, please check it out, it is cool! These statements are the essence of me, what is most important. One slide is ‘focus on the giving.’ This is clearly the season for ‘focus on the giving.’ How does focus on the giving relate to travel? A fellow traveler just called and wants to go to his brother’s 70 surprise birthday party this weekend; late to be planning and therefore expensive. It did not take him long to realize that expense is not the issue here. After all, it is all about the surprised expression on his brother’s face when he arrives at the party. As the quote goes ‘in giving we receive.’
The season may mean spending time and money giving to the point of exhaustion.
For those without means and family, it is even more draining. So how can we all keep our heads above water? Giving does not mean only to others, but it is also to us. Give to yourself, so you can give more to others. If you plan something nice, you may happily have renewed energy to give to others. A simple good massage can relax you; and help meet the challenges of the season. I often plan a late fall getaway to rejuvenate the body and soul. This year I will just close my eyes and remember my September holiday. That will last me a long time.
If you are a single and or a senior the season can be very difficult for you. You may not want to stay home. There are lots of activities designed for you where you can travel solo and still pay for single occupancy rather than the double most hotels and cruise charge. There are guided tours, river excursions, sea cruises and educational getaways. You name it and it is there and I expect even more for this season. So be nice to yourself.
Does ‘focus on the giving’ only mean money and material things? When means are an issue there are lots of different types of gifts offered. For example: rides to the airport or doctor’s office, a night babysitting, a car wash, help removing the air conditioners or putting them in, or take help with shopping. Giving does not necessarily mean money. Write your gifts on a card and watch your friends face glow. If we all gave one gift of action, what a wonderful world it would be.
With regards to material things, most of us have too much. Google George Carlin on stuff, it is very funny! Maybe this year we focus on giving to a non-profit rather than things. Surely our friends and family will appreciate this gift more. If you do not know which organizations are legitimate go to http://www.charitynavigator.com. This website will assist you to focus on the giving.
AlwaysHarriet 