The True Spirit of the Holiday: Embracing the Gift of Giving

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the true meaning of the occasion. Beyond the hustle and bustle of gift-giving and merry celebrations, there is a deeper essence that brings us closer to the spirit of the season. This spirit is not about receiving or giving, but about the act of giving itself.

What Is the True Spirit of the Holiday?

The authentic spirit of the holiday transcends the physical act of giving. It is about cultivating a way of being where giving becomes an integral part of our lives. Unlike the act of giving, which can be perceived as a deception, living a life of giving transforms us and allows divine grace to fill our lives.

From Giving as an Act to Giving as a Way of Being

When we give for the sake of giving, it can sometimes be a deceptive act. After all, what can we truly give that we did not first receive? The things we possess, including our physical body, are mere temporary gifts borrowed from the universe. Our true offering is in how we use and share these blessings.

However, if we embrace giving as a way of being, where our actions reflect this state of mind, our generosity becomes genuine and profound. Every step and every breath can be a manifestation of giving, transforming our lives into a continuous act of contribution.

Reflections from Personal Experiences

The true spirit of giving can be exemplified by stories that transcend our understanding. For instance, my great-grandmother lived to be 113 years old, defying the expectations of mortality. Despite burying her loved ones, she remained alive due to her unyielding spirit of giving.

In the morning, she would often give away at least two-thirds of her breakfast to wildlife, particularly ants. This act of generosity was met with skepticism by others who suggested she would starve. However, it was her persistent giving that nourished her, contributing to her extraordinary longevity.

Setting Boundaries and Receiving Graces

Our tendency to set boundaries often creates barriers to divine presence. By holding back, we limit our potential for divine grace to enter our lives. Conversely, embracing a constant state of giving allows us to open ourselves to the limitless possibilities the universe has to offer.

Embracing a Constant State of Giving

To truly embody the spirit of giving, we must integrate it into every aspect of our lives. Whether through small gestures or major contributions, we should seek to make our lives a form of contribution. This constant state of giving fosters a union with the divine and sets the necessary foundations for cosmic possibilities.

The True Nourishment of Life

Our nourishment is not limited to what we eat. While food, air, water, and sunlight are essential, the way we give and receive goes beyond the physical. By giving, we not only enrich others but also nurture ourselves. This reciprocal transaction is the essence of life.

So, let us embrace the gift of giving with an open heart. It is not about the amount we give; it is about the act of giving itself. By living a life of constant giving, we allow divine grace to fill our lives and bring the true spirit of the holiday into our hearts.

Merry Christmas to all.