Give Comfort + Joy

Last Friday I wrapped up two weeks worth of gift guide posts.  Those roundups featured wonderful treasures for you to share with your friends and loved ones, and I hope you found some that were just right for everyone on your shopping list.

Today I want to touch on something very dear to my heart, and that is charitable giving and acts of kindness.

When I was young, my Mom would frequently reminded me that "there will always be somebody more fortunate, and somebody less fortunate that you are."  I often think of her words when I am feeling down about a circumstance in my life, or sorry for myself (we all have those moments right)... and I am encouraged to know that no matter how out of control certain parts of life may seem, I ultimately have control over what I will do and who I will become in spite of those challenges.

In my experience there is no faster route to true joy than to give of yourself to someone in need.  It doesn't have to be something huge.  Maybe all you can manage is a smile at an elderly woman who's sitting alone at the park, or holding the door open for somebody who's arms are full... these may be small acts, but they matter.  There are countless opportunities in our daily lives to reach out a hand (or offer a smile) to someone who who is less fortunate.

If you are able to give financially, here are a few charities that I really believe in.

THE GIRL EFFECT:

HEIFER INTERNATIONAL: A gift that keeps on giving.

KIVA: Loans that change lives.  I'm thrilled to say that I've just started a team (Give Comfort) over on Kiva,
where I would love to have you join with me and other Creature Comforts' readers in providing
micro loans to those in need around the world.  You can read more about
Kiva and how it all works right here.

There are many wonderful organizations out there.  Those you dedicate your time, money, and heart to should be the ones that matter most to you.  The links above are ones that I'm passionate about.  If you are baffled and want more information, Charity Navigator is a great site to help you find out more about the top charities and their efficiency.

Thanks for reading and for spreading kindness and joy throughout the world.  You always brighten my days so much... I am so incredibly thankful for YOU!

Comments

[littlebrownpen]

Joined Give Comfort. Great idea!

[carrie]

I love that you did a post about this. I'm actually surprised I haven't seen many folks speaking about this but I think this is one of those years that reminds us why it is so important.

I think service to others and/or giving, no matter if it's time or money or a hug, is something that everyone should do. I believe it's a fundamental part of being a citizen in a community and not something that should be only done once per year for when there is a need, it doesn't recognize holidays, that need is there each day of the year.

Thank you for posting this and reminding us that giving is better than receiving. I have continued contributions to several animal welfare organizations that I give to throughout the year as well as fostering dogs and cats in my home and feeding and looking after some feral cats in my neighborhood.

I am also this year participating in an event called Home for the Howlidays put on by Pasado's Safe Haven. It is a day spent delivering dog houses, dog beds and blankets, pet food and other necessities for pets to people and families who do not have enough but who do share the love in their heart with a furry friend. I'm really excited about this as the temperature here has been sub-freezing and it pains my heart to know there are critters out there without a warm, dry bed.

xoxoxohugsCarrie

[Jennifer]

I think this is an awesome cause. I just joined your Kiva group and made my first loan! I'm excited to be a part of this.

[Katie]

Thanks so much for this posting. I found it comforting. I'm gonna pass it on...

[Carrie]

Thanks for posting this. Another organization that is quite wonderful is Women for Women. You can check it out at www.womenforwomen.org. This has been a fantastic reminder to keep things in perspective.

Peace --

[Melissa Brown]

Oh, sweet, wonderful, lovely Ez....This post is beautiful, as are you and thank you for introducing me to the girl effect, I think we will contribute to this in our girls names this Christmas. What an amazing idea and project. Thank you.xoxoMelis

[Jo]

Great post! This year I am making all presents, and decorations, not because I can not afford them but because instead myself and friends are donating to a charity we feel needs the money more than us with our silly presents (although they can be quite tempting)! This year we are all giving to a non profit called SAWA Global, pretty much they provide a voice for all those individuals in the world's poorest countries who have no access to resources and the privileges we all get in North America and Europe, through creating video stories and sharing them with the world!

I think that everyone should donate financial or with time to an organization they believe, and perhaps if we all became a little selfish we could actually our world around!

Great post!xoxoJo

[Rachel B]

Thank you so much for sharing these sites. I never would have known about them otherwise. I sent these to my friends and family. We will all be giving back this year thanks to your post.

[Pravina Studio]

That phrase really is so true. It's so easy to get wrapped up with only what's happening to yourself. Thanks for the reminder to keep everyone else in mind and be thankful even when it seems like nothing is going your way.

[Courtney]

EZ, this is a wonderful post. You are so right too- even the small acts matter and are so important.

[Tartelette]

Thank you for posting this. Very soul warming.

[Komal-Nishka]

Dear Ez,

It is so true and what your mum said is what we need to remember in times of distress. I love your website and am adding it to my list of blogs I recommend and follow :)