I’m guessing many of you are kicking off the new year with some new material possessions. Starting with gratitude, I want to say how thankful I am to live this abundant life. That said, sometimes gifts can be overwhelming- both to give and receive.
When a bunch of new stuff comes into my home, I have an overwhelming urge to clean things out. My husband, Brad, compares our house to our bodies and says there is a reason we have one intake point and two outflow points. I agree with this wholeheartedly! I think everyone feels better when the flow of energy moves both in and out.
Possession is defined as, “the state of having, owning, or controlling something.” When we lose control of our items (generally because of some sort of guilt) they own us, and no one wants that! I believe guilt is a terrible reason to hang onto something. No one intends for a gift to be a burden, so don’t let it be.
Here are some ideas to help embrace the JOY gifts are meant to create-
Receiving-
Open up space to receive before or after a holiday by cleaning out things that are no longer useful or don’t bring you joy. If you have kids, help them donate toys and share with them the delights of giving.
Be thankful!
Experience the JOY of giving!
Releasing-
Ask people what gifts they want and include gift receipts
Give consumable and experiential gifts
Return items that don’t work for you
Re-gift stuff to friends and family to spread the love
Donate things to give back to the community (I always have a Goodwill box in my home, which I regularly add to)
Let Go of expectations… You do not need to give the perfect gift or keep every gift you receive. It is truly the thought that counts, so hold on to that.
My biggest encouragement to everyone is not to hesitate… If you don’t find joy in a gift, do something about it! Spread the love and keep the gifting cycle flowing.
Love Always,
Meg
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