Category: Relationships
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Give yourself permission to say no (Advent Day 11)
Advent is supposed to be a time for waiting and anticipation, for spiritual reflection and cultivating hope, peace, joy and love in our hearts. Yet, for most people, December is crammed with holiday events, shopping and other obligations that can be a drain on time, energy and peace of mind. If holiday jingles jangle your…
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ForGIVEness for yourself and others (Advent Day 10)
A lot has been said about the power of forgiveness to heal and transform lives. Forgiveness is one of the most crucial spiritual teachings we have been given to learn, yet it can be one of the most difficult to put into practice. “Forgive and forget” is a popular mantra, but in truth, it can…
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Give blessings (Advent Day 9)
Yesterday, we lit the Advent candle of peace. It was a moment to reflect on our Prince of Peace, Jesus, who taught us to open our divided hearts toward a life of reconciliation. I realized late in the day that it was also the anniversary of the murder of John Lennon, another strong advocate for…
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Give hugs (Advent Day 8)
Words may fail, but a true hug never does. We are a culture disconnected from healthy, loving, healing touch – everything that a heartfelt hug offers. One of the books my daughter loved for me to read to her was a book called Hug, by Jez Alborough. The main character, a chimp named Bobo, searches…
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Give a handwritten note (Advent Day 7)
When was the last time you received – or wrote – a handwritten note to someone, just because? Sure, you still may write thank you cards and maybe even Christmas cards by hand, but when was the last time you wrote a note or letter by hand? Now that emailing, texting and social media are…
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Give 3 words of love (Advent Day 6)
How often do you let the people in your life know that they are loved? That they are special? Or appreciated? Words are energy: what you say (or don’t say) to someone has the power to profoundly impact their heart and soul. And chances are, we don’t tell those we care about how much they…
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Give a cup of coffee or tea (Advent Day 5)
One of my fondest memories of childhood is sitting at the dining room table with my paternal grandparents, enjoying freshly brewed hot tea in the afternoon and noshing on snacks. It was their version of high tea that I’ve always treasured, nibbling on crackers and listening to the adults share stories. My mother’s family was…
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Give someone a helping hand (Advent Day 4)
Face it – sometimes we need a helping hand, but may be reluctant to ask for assistance. And we all know many other people who are the same way. Do you have a friend who is ill or recovering from surgery who could use help running a few errands or walking the dog? Maybe you know…
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Give someone your attention (Advent Day 2)
Think about what it felt like when someone you know sat and really listened to you. What did it feel like to be heard and fully acknowledged? Today, on Day 2 of #24daysofgiving, give someone your full attention. Take the time to sit with a co-worker or loved one who needs to talk. The holidays…
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Blessing, releasing, forgiving
Recently, I had to let go of a very difficult relationship. Although I love this person very much, the relationship has always been unhealthy, causing pain and grief over the years. Even while limiting contact, I searched in vain for ways to “fix” things. I eventually realized that this relationship couldn’t be fixed. Sacrificing my…
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