So much of the negativity and tension we experience throughout the year – and during the holidays – has to do with what we say and hear from others. In the age of digital media, it has become so commonplace for people to post, tweet or video whatever they want, without considering the social, emotional and energetic impact of their words.

When we say something kind to someone or about something, we are creating a higher energetic vibration that heals hearts and sustains relationships. Words can be swords or they can be a balm; which do you choose to offer when given the opportunity?

Jesus was the Living Word, revealing the heart and mind of God for all to know and experience directly. How can you be a living word of kindness to others, following in Jesus’s example? You don’t have to be a Christian to understand the positive, life-affirming impact your words can have on the world around you. The Dalai Lama has famously said that his religion is lovingkindness, and he has publicly expressed compassion and empathy to those who have oppressed him.

Always choose kind words that reflect the truth of your innate friendly, generous and warm-hearted nature. It’s already IN you!

My inspiration for today is the Christmas song, “Do You Hear What I Hear?”

Said the king to the people everywhere,
Listen to what I say
Pray for peace, people everywhere!
Listen to what I say
The Child, the Child, sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light…

Feel free to share your experience or your creative suggestions. If you’re on Twitter or Instagram, share using the #24daysofgiving hashtag. Let’s spread some love and good cheer!

Did you miss a day?

Day 1: Give yourself 5 minutes

Day 2: Give someone your attention

Day 3: Give time to a worthy cause

Day 4: Give someone a helping hand

Day 5: Give a cup of coffee or tea

Day 6: Give 3 words of love

Day 7: Give a handwritten note

Day 8: Give hugs

Day 9: Give blessings

Day 10: ForGIVEness for yourself and others

Day 11: Give yourself permission to say no

Day 12: Give yourself space to let the light in

Day 13: Give a nice greeting

Day 14: Give yourself a day off

Day 15: Give words of encouragement

Day 16: Give in to wonderment

Day 17: Give your light to others

Day 18: Give someone a meal

#24daysofgiving is an Advent experiment in being called to come into being through the practices of love and compassion, while reflecting on the coming of Christ into the world.

(Image credit: sweetonveg)