Thanksgiving Is About The Thanks And The Giving

I don’t know about you guys but when I think of Thanksgiving, I always think of the turkey, pumpkin pie, all the amazing food and family time. Putting that aside, I also think of things that I’m thankful for; like clean water, people I love, having a job, feeling safe, etc. I often forget about the later half of the word. You know, the “giving” part. Thanksgiving is about giving thanks, but it’s also about the giving. And I’ll be the first to admit that I often forget about that part.

I was brought to tears the other day when I came home from work and found a big package on my door step. I wasn’t expecting anything in the mail, so I was confused as to what it was. I tore it open and inside was the sweetest gift box and card from my brother and his girlfriend. They sent us a care package to let us know that they were thinking of us during the holiday. Knowing that it was our first Thanksgiving away from home, they sent us a few items to help us get prepared – pumpkin pancake mix, a festive table runner, a cheese board, etc. What a beautiful gift! I was so touched by it and overwhelmed that they took time out of their busy day to give so generously to us this season.

As the holiday season come around, I want to be more intentional about giving. I think I can do a better job of it. To start, Dave and I decided this weekend we’d volunteer our time to feed the elderly through Meals on Wheels. It will be a fun and humbling way for us to give together and also a great way for us to brighten someone else’s day. I don’t want to share this to boast about how we’re “good people”, but I want to use this post to inspire you to do something similar. Perhaps it’s treating a friend to coffee or helping a neighbor carry in their groceries. Be creative, you don’t have to spend much money, in fact, giving your time is worth so much more than money. I’d love to know, what things are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? And in what ways do you hope to give this season?