6 Ways to Spread Joy This Holiday Season

The holidays are when we celebrate all the good in the world and show love to as many people as possible. Before you unwrap the presents this Christmas, take a moment to let others know you’re thinking of them. Here are six ways to spread joy this holiday season:

Pick up the tab for the car behind you at the drive-thru.

The next time you swing by a fast food drive-thru for a quick cup of coffee or a speedy lunch, tell the cashier you’d like to pay for the car behind you as well. Money can get tight during the holidays and you never know how much saving a few extra dollars can mean to someone. At the very least, you’ll make that driver feel special during a stressful time of year.

Donate your old coats to charity.

Chances are good that you have some old jackets hanging in your closet that haven’t been worn in years. Likewise, your children probably have some coats they’ve outgrown since last winter. Make it a family project to gather up all that outerwear and donate it to charity. You’ll feel great knowing that you’ve helped clothe people in need during these cold months.

Take some tabletop trees to a nursing home.

Many of the residents in nursing homes don’t have family members nearby. You can spread a bit of Christmas joy by visiting those people during the holiday season. Pick up a few tabletop trees and decorate them with festive bows and ornaments. When you’re done, take the mini trees to a nursing home and personally deliver them to some of the residents. You can talk for a few minutes and leave behind the cheery trees to brighten their spirits throughout the holidays.

Give canned goods to a local food bank.

For most of us, Christmas just isn’t complete without a big spread featuring a holiday ham and all the trimmings. However, some people don’t always have the privilege of enjoying the traditional feast. In fact, many families struggle to put any food on the table at all. You can help those in need by donating a bag of canned goods to a local food bank. From canned ham and green beans to corn and sweet potatoes, you can do your part to make sure everyone enjoys the comfort of a hearty meal during the holiday season.

Babysit for friends and neighbors.

Busy moms and dads often have trouble finding an opportunity to shop for their children’s Christmas gifts. It’s hard to surprise those little ones if they’re always around. Lend a helping hand this December by offering to babysit for a few hours. You could even invite several kids in the neighborhood to join your own children for a holiday slumber party. You’ll give the other parents a good window of time to pick out presents and wrap them before their kids come home.

Bake christmas cookies for soldiers.

There are many soldiers stationed in other countries that won’t be able to visit their families during the holiday season. You can help some of the troops enjoy a taste of home by baking a batch of cookies and shipping it to them. Several churches and other charitable organizations can assist you in the process. Find a coordinated effort near you and send a package of goodies for some soldiers to munch on. They’re sure to appreciate the sweet gesture.

The holidays are all about giving and caring.

You can show your love for others by spreading a bit of joy during Christmas time. Any of the ideas on this list will help you make this holiday season a little more special for everyone.

Give all of these suggestions a try and you can truly bring some joy to the world!

*Source: Article by Heather Hughes