Eight Gifts that Don't Cost a Cent

Contributed by Patty Paul

Discover how easy it is to give gifts that are welcomed in large part because they haven't cost anything -- except thought and love.

My friend Patty Paul periodically sends an e-mail with a marvelous poem or inspirational quotation that beautifully express qualities of the human spirit and how we can put them into action. A few she writes herself, although I believe this one is by the famous Anonymous. In any case, when I received this, it gave me an idea for how I might share the idea with our readers.

You see, I realized that, if you're at all like me, when you are confronted with a list of several kind things you can do for others, you likely smile and say "that's nice." You certainly recognize the truth in each of them, for you probably already give one or more of these "gifts" every day—but you likely do it unconsciously. Today, however, I suggest that you decide to deliberately give one of these gifts to someone else. Just pick out one thing and do it with awareness. If you were to do this every day for a week, by the end of a week you will have begun to develop a habit of consciously giving gifts that don't cost anything. And the lives of those around you will be great enriched.

— Arlene Harder, MA, MFT

1. The Gift of Listening . . .

But you must REALLY listen. No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your response. Just listening.

2. The Gift of Affection . . .

Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.

3. The Gift of Laughter . . .

Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say, "I love to laugh with you."

4. The Gift of a Written Note . . .

It can be a simple "Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime, and may even change a life.

5. The Gift of a Compliment . . .

A simple and sincere, "You look great in red," "You did a super job" or "That was a wonderful meal" can make someone's day.

6. The Gift of a Favor . . .

Every day, go out of your way to do something kind.

7. The Gift of Solitude . . .

There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.

8. The Gift of a Cheerful Disposition . . .

The easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone. Really, it's not that hard to say "Hello" or "Thank You."