The Season of Giving
As 2023 comes to a close, we can honestly say that the year was a year of turbulence. Whatever stage of life you are in, 2023 most certainly brought many ups and downs. For instance, the great inflationary pressures have caused the cost of living, taxes, and gas prices to escalate. Some experienced loss, major change, and unexpected adversity. But 2023 shouldn’t come as a surprise. As we grow older, gain responsibility, and broaden our sphere of influence, things will inevitably get tougher. We should start to look at the increasing number of challenges we face as the new norm, instead of the exception.
An idea that I recently came across rings true now more than ever: “If you’re struggling with frustration related to your positioning in life, remember one thing; regardless of what you’re going through, there is always someone out there that has less than you. They dream of being in the situation that you are currently in and would do anything to trade places.” Stop and think about that for a second. We often forget about all the things that we have. Losing sight of the feats we’ve accomplished and all we’ve sacrificed to get there. This notion should act as a reminder that we are exactly where we need to be in life.
There are two valuable lessons amongst our challenges. One is of gratitude and respect towards all who have helped us along in our journey. Our successes can largely be attributed to these custodians. The other is the realization that many people suffer far more than ourselves. Last year, I made donations to a few incredible charities, one of them being Carriage Town Ministries in Flint, Michigan. Their existence is centered around serving the homeless of Flint. Understanding the impact forged by charities like this one made me realize that many people do not come from comfortable means. Many are less fortunate than ourselves. Many do not have the resources that you or I have. All odds seem to be stacked against them. If 2023 was a rough year for you, imagine what it must have been like for some of these individuals.
With this in mind, it becomes glaringly apparent that these organizations are in dire need of our support this holiday season. Whether it be through donation of monetary value or through volunteering your services, any assistance will be welcomed. Find an organization that you feel strongly about. Find a cause that matters to you. Look for ways in which you can give. It will be different for everyone, just make sure that the cause is important to you. Remember, the best gift you can give this holiday season is one without any strings attached. One that you don’t look for anything in return. One that can make a difference in another’s life.
Now before you say, “Nick, you’re crazy! It’s been a rough 2023! Like you said, I can barely pay my bills, I’m hardly staying afloat. Why should I consider giving away the little I have left?” Please recognize this: There are many people who don’t have anything. Who does not have a place to live. Who go to bed hungry, worrying about where their next meal will come from. Who have clothes that are worn down to their last thread. Who have forgotten what it’s like to be surrounded by loved ones. Who are going through something in their lives that we can’t even fathom going through. Under these circumstances, we should aim to provide a runway for the less fortunate. We should strive to build up a foundation for those who haven’t one. The holiday season is more than anticipating the gifts we might receive. It’s about embracing a spirit of giving. Providing meaningful gifts that are blessings to others.
Undoubtably, 2023 has been a strenuous year for all. However, the new year brings a glimmer of hope. A chance at a new beginning. A fresh runway for opportunity. And so, as December dwindles away, make this season of giving larger than yourself. Look to create a difference for someone who needs it more than you do. Let your hearts be full of gratitude knowing your generosity could change the life of a person who desperately needs it. After all, that is the greatest gift we can ever receive, witnessing the happiness our gifts provide to others.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Nick Scherba
REALTOR - American Associates Realtors
810-429-2341
www.scherbasold.com
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