I'm Tired of Feeling the Grinchy Spirit!

[Dorothy39]

We've talked about this and you know I completely agree with you. And it's not just Christmas of course, but the self-centered, rushed, every-man-for-himself attitude that prevails all year round so much now. This Christmas is a perfect time to make a new start at trying to do more and see/participate more in the world around you, to try to stop mourning what has been lost and focus on making of it what you can. Sometimes I find myself so caught up in my own problems and anxieties I get bogged down, forget to think of others and forget to see the "small" wonders of life. A little reminder is always welcome. Plus, somehow my own problems and anxieties just seem to fade a bit each time I reach out and do something selfless for someone else

Every relpy to this thread is incredible!!

And!

Every single Christmas, I clamor about and gather "food", clothing, supplies , and tug at the coat sleeves of my friends and family members to donate and share!!!

Not only during Christmas, but throughout the year~

I've done so for such a long, long time~This Christmas Holds a New Meaning for my Purpose. I might be tired, from gathering all the food, sorting through the clothing for " Pristine" aparel,(washing and refreshing un used clothing) and storing away staples that are a "must" for those in dire need~

I feel the True Essence of Christmas every year~My personal problems dissolved when I donated to "The Homeless Shelter" in our area this afternoon~

Christmas is a State of Mind~

[Vela]

What a wonderful thing you do each year Dorothy! Thank you for sharing that. I know what you mean about it being a state of mind. In "taking back how christmas used to be" for myself, I want to keep the feeling all year round and try not to let the stresses and trials of life get me down, but try to have a smile for each new day we are blessed with on this earth, and to be thankful for all of the things we do have, stop lamenting those things we don't, and always take time to help someone in need, even if it's just to hold the door because their arms ar full. You guys have all really helped brighten my holiday, and it really does feel like "old times" again.

[momoffuzzyfaces]

I used to save my pennies all year long and then in November cash them in and use the money for toys for the Salvation Army toy box. I'd sometimes have to add a bit too it but it was well worth it. Sadly, the Salvation army moved out of town this year and I don't know of any one having a local toy drive.

We do have a program where you can adopt a family for Christmas. Unfortunately, I can't afford to do that but lots of people can.