I’ve heard it said that November is a month of gratitude to prepare us for the month of December giving.
What a beautiful thought—preparing to give!
I’ve known the joy of finding the perfect gift for someone and seeing their face light up as they open it, in contrast to giving a gift without much thought or meaning.
Could the act of preparing to give not only transform how we give but also enrich the entire experience of giving and receiving?
The Preparation
And what better way to prepare than by expressing gratitude, as we’ve done throughout the month of November?
As many of us return from Thanksgiving gatherings, we may carry with us a blend of feelings: the warmth of family connections, alongside the challenges or complexities we faced.
There might be moments of joy mixed with hints of sadness or worry.
Yet, each experience, no matter how challenging, adds richness to our lives.
Are there things to be grateful for in your recent experiences—the past week, month, or even year?
Are there hidden blessings waiting to be uncovered?
How does this connect to preparing to give?
Changing the Way We Give
Perhaps recognizing and expressing that gratitude changes the way in which we give.
Perhaps gratitude gives us the ability to give with love, of seeing more clearly the meaning behind the gifts we choose or receive.
Isn’t it true that gifts can hold possibilities?
They can foster reconciliation, express appreciation, or convey the love we feel for others.
A gift offered with love, no matter its size or cost, becomes something deeply meaningful—and perhaps even life-changing—for both giver and receiver.
And, of course, giving extends beyond physical items.
It’s in thoughtful gestures, acts of kindness, a smile, or a helping hand.
Whatever form it takes, a gift given with love carries true significance.
And a heart filled with gratitude is prepared to give much needed love any time of year.
I invite you to consider how you might prepare to give and fully experience the joy of Christmas!
Much love,
