Free Gifts

"My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth." [1 John 3:18]

It is just one week before Christmas and many of us are still scrambling to find one or two last minute gifts. Here is a thoughtful article I received in this mornings mail.   It offers some ideas on showing others love.

"Eight gifts that don't cost a cent
The gift of listening ... but you must really listen. No interrupting. no daydreaming, no planning your response. Just listening.
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 mends.
The gift of laughter ... Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say, "I love to laugh with you."
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.
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.
The gift of a favor ... Every day, go out of your way to do something kind.
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.
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." [Author unknown]

Come to think about it maybe we better save this gifts until after Christmas and give them all year long.