Most people think of the holidays as the “Season for Giving” and yes, that is what most of us try to do. We shop for gifts for our loved ones, send token gifts of gratitude to our clients, and possibly even write a check to our favorite charity this time of year.
Everyone likes to be thought of as being a “Generous Giver.” But few people talk about the importance of also being a “Gracious Receiver,” which I believe is equally important. In fact, this year I think it is more important than ever to embrace this idea.
Like most of you, many of my family and friends are financially strapped this year and don’t have the resources to give gifts. I know everyone feels badly when they cannot give a gift at the holidays, so I tell them that 2009 is their year to simply be “the receiver.” After all, what fun would giving be if there were no receivers? In order for our giving to be complete…we need receivers.
So how do we become “gracious receivers?” First, we need to more fully acknowledge that it is just as important and holy to receive as it is to give. One does not exist without the other.
By becoming “gracious receivers” we allow “the giver” to fully experience the joy of giving which is itself a powerful gift.
As we increasingly allow ourselves to receive, we say yes! to all of God’s glory and abundance. Let us use this holiday season to become more open and receptive to receiving all that seeks to be given to us…gratefully and gracefully.
Peace and Blessings!
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Previous Posts
Farewell, My Friends: May You Discover Your Own Rich Life
Sadly, today is my last blog on Beliefnet. It has been a tremendous
pleasure and honor to have been a part of your lives for the last year. In parting, I want you to know that I hope to continue to be a resource to you through my work at The Money Coaching Institute. Our work as
Money Coaches contin
posted 9:45:18pm Mar. 11, 2010 |
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Wednesday's Blessing
Great Spirit, God, Creator of All
I welcome You into my heart, mind, body and soul
There is always room for You here.
Grant me the wisdom to heed my inner voice
And the strength to stay grounded while I sing my sacred song.
Guide me down my chosen path and give me the courage to pursue
what is avail
posted 10:25:31pm Mar. 10, 2010 |
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Are You a Pessimist or Optimist?
I don't know about you but it feels to me that things are getting better. Our nation and the economy still have it's problems, but a hint of positive change does seem to be in the air, doesn't it? Or maybe, it's that spring is on the way and I'm feeling optimistic. Truth be told, I'm a bit tired of
posted 10:49:21pm Mar. 09, 2010 |
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Are You a Shopaholic? An Interview with psychologist, April Lane Benson
I recently had the pleasure of meeting the reknown psychologist, April Lane Benson, at a conference in Arizona, where we were both keynote speakers. April's an expert in compulsive shopping. Afterwards, we had a chance to have lunch together and she gave me a copy of her new book, To Buy Or Not To B
posted 9:49:54am Mar. 08, 2010 |
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Dealing With Our Money "Disorders"
Lately, it seems like the
list of society's "money disorders" seems to be growing by the day. Common money issues today include: compulsive shopping, financial infidelity, debt addiction,
hoarding, money phobia, compulsive
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posted 11:35:27pm Mar. 04, 2010 |
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