The Season of Giving

This is the time of year when, in the western world, we typically spend a lot of money on material gifts for our loved ones. It makes us feel good to give to others.

This year though, it's more of a challenge to be able to give in the way we've become accustomed to. Almost everyone is feeling the pinch of the global economic crisis - even those whose pockets haven't been directly affected still seem to be afflicted by the air of worry, doom and gloom that is lingering in our energy field. We either cannot afford to spend like before, or we are afraid to do so.

But just because you're not able to spend as lavishly right now doesn't mean you can't give as generously. You just have to give in a different way.

And it's better now, because now you have the perfect excuse (you've always had the opportunity) to give more meaningfully and less materially.

So instead of panicking about your Christmas shopping budget, get creative! What can you do for your loved ones that they would truly appreciate? Rather than spend money, give love, affection, companionship. Do something that truly demonstrates how much you care.

The warm glow in your heart will be very hard to beat.

And to top it all off - whatever you give in this fashion will come back to you. It is the law of giving and receiving.

"The universe operates through dynamic exchange . . . giving and receiving are different aspects of the flow of energy in the universe." ~ Deepak Chopra

There is always a silver lining. Take this economic downturn as the perfect opportunity to re-evaluate what is important. Get clear on what you really want in your life - I'd bet everything I have in the bank that it's not material.

And then, when you know what it is that you truly want, give it to others.