Growing up my mom had a friend – let’s call her Caren. The best way I can describe Caren is Regina George, from Mean Girls.
A gravitational pull like no other – CHECK
Gossip – CHECK
Pink – MAYBE
Burn Book……Hmmmmm
Needless to say we were not simpatico she and I.
Not. Even. A. Little.
BUT – in the spirit of the season – this is about the one thing Caren did right.
Nope. Not choreography.
She gave my family the gift of time.
Shortly after starting college my mom got sick and needed many months to recover. (Don’t worry – this is a happy story.)
At that point in time, my mom and Caren were part of a union. One of the perks was the ability to donate PTO to others. So that Autumn, Caren spent a great deal of her time convincing others to donate their time to help my mother.
They did, they were generous, and it was the greatest gift. Surprising from Caren. And just the greatest.
My mom got what she needed most and made a full recovery. I was and still to this day am so very thankful.
As you find out this subject matter in real time.
Time and being a giver of time are very important things.
Every time you walk into a 3rd space and there’s an event – someone, a time giver, has spent effort in thinking about what is needed in the community and orchestrated that gathering. They did it for you.
It’s what makes a bookstore, library, climbing gym, thrift store, cafe, gallery, and workspace more than just that. They are spaces + people that have spent energy in gifting time to others.
Let’s go one further – as we wade through the holiday season often dealing with monetary giving – Let’s make a shift to time gifts.
Shovel for a neighbor.
Watch someone’s kids so they can rest.
Plan adventures with your kids or friends.
Call or text someone you’ve been meaning to.
Be gracious with yourself and allow time to rest. (You deserve it.)
Often, the simplest gifts speak the loudest.
Happy Holidays, Friends. I hope you get what you need and I wish you the energy to give what you can.
Much love.
Melanie – Time Giver