The holiday season is naturally a time when we’re buying and giving gifts to family, friends and colleagues to show how much they mean to us. But it’s often the things that cost nothing that mean the most. These 20 emotional gifts designed to strengthen happiness, well-being and compassion are sure to mean more than anything that will arrive on your doorstep from Amazon this year.
- To yourself: Respect, confidence, faith and fortitude
- To a family member: Communication and understanding, even if there have been relationship challenges
- To a friend: A heartfelt, caring spirit and appreciation
- To nature and our animals: Admiration, protection and preservation
- To a nonprofit you care about: Generosity of time and treasure and ardent advocacy
- To our military forces, first responders and their loved ones: Honor, admiration, and support to heal the wounds
- To the ill and hurting: Conscientious concern and comfort
- To the hungry and homeless: Compassion, emergency services and creative community solutions
- To the abused, neglected and abandoned: Representation, security and hope
- To someone with a special challenge: Recognition, acceptance and a path to independence
- To the addicted and troubled: Open arms, forgiveness and a positive path to recovery
- To a traveler: Words of hospitality and care
- To an infant or toddler: Attention, presence, safety and learning opportunities
- To a child or teen: Patience, guidance and a positive example through mentoring
- To a parent in need: A helping hand and guidance.
- To an elder: Reverence, gratitude and dignified care
- To a customer or client: Excellent service and lasting value
- To everyone you see, friends and strangers alike: A warm smile, acts of kindness and positive energy
- To people of every age: Unconditional love and sincere gratitude.
- To all the peoples of the world: Justice and peace