Teach Children the Real Meaning of Christmas by Giving

At this time of year we tend to get so wrapped up in all of the shopping and festivities that we sometimes forget that the holiday season is a very hard time of year for many who have lost loved ones or live alone. Others may be feeling down due to the loss of their employment.

That's why I have come up with some ideas to help you show those in need that you care. By doing so, you'll also be demonstrating the true meaning of Christmas to your children...and you'll feel good, too. It's always a rewarding gift when we give of our time.

We have a nursing home in the community----so why not start there? I'm sure many of its residents would appreciate some homemade cookies and a group get-together for the singing of Christmas carols.

The Front Street Apartments and Saucon Manor on Northampton Street in Hellertown are home to many other residents who might also appreciate the gift of your time. Why not get a bunch of people together, bake cookies and go visit them? Many elderly have lost loved ones and would appreciate company at this special time of year. Do make sure that you tell the nursing home or the other complexes that you would like to visit, in order to spread some holiday cheer. It's a good idea to let them know in advance, so they can help you plan.

Here are some other ideas to help you share the Christmas spirit with others:

* Go visit that neighbor that you know will be spending Christmas alone.

* Go to your pantry, get some canned goods and bring them to a local food bank.

* Buy a Christmas tree for someone you know has little money and drop it off without them knowing.

* Ask your children to donate some of their allowance money, put it in a jar and leave it on someone's doorstep that you know is going through a hard time. A mason jar with some Christmas ribbon would work perfectly. Be sure to leave it in a spot where they will find it, but others won't!

* Do you know a family that may be going through tough times and has kids? Ask everyone you know to donate some money, buy some presents from the toy store, place them in gift bags and be a "silent Santa" by delivering them anonymously.

* Go to a local hospital and read a story to the sick children who will be spending their holidays away from home (call the hospital ahead of time to ask for permission).

* Buy a turkey or ham with all the trimmings and give it to a neighbor who you know really needs help.

* Supporting the Wounded Warrior Project is a wonderful way to give back to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country. Donate $19 a month or more and become a part of their Advance Guard.

* Be a secret Santa in the neighborhood. Go to , buy some Christmas coffee mugs and put a packet of hot chocolate mix in each one. Then put them on neighbors' doorsteps.

* Go to a mission or shelter on Christmas and give of your time to feed the homeless.

* Buy Christmas cards (which are very affordable if you purchase them at the dollar store) and send them to veterans or active service troops to thank them for their service.

* Ask everyone in your family to donate to a local shelter for animals.

* If you are considering buying your children a pet for Christmas, .

* Invite that neighbor that you know will be spending Christmas alone to dinner.

* If you have no money to spare, visiting an elderly person is the best gift to give, as so many are so lonely. It will cost you nothing but some of your time.

Let's never forget how blessed we are and that the most precious gift is to give.