This is the time of year when I feel a mixture of the winter blues and an inner fire to make changes in my life. Christmas is over. We are back in Virginia. Eric is back at work and I am back to writing, planning, and my other normal tasks. When I allow it to, January can bring me down. It can seem endless, cold, unforgiving, and a constant reminder that I have to wait another year for Christmas to roll around again.
But, it does not have to be a month of gloom! Sure, those gray days will peer into your soul and try to steal your joy, but you can beat them to the punch by proactively planning a month of giving, experiencing, and fun with those you love.
What am I recommending today?
GIFT BOMBING!
Have you ever purchased a gift, left it on someone’s porch, rang the doorbell and ran? Does that not sound like the most fun you will ever have in your entire life?! (Okay, maybe not, but it does sound exciting, right?!)
Remember those days as a kid when you would ring doorbells and run? This time, you can have all the adrenaline pumping fun while simultaneously blessing someone’s day. It sounds like a win-win to me!
Wait, I’m Broke!
Gift bombing does not require a huge price tag. Gift bombing can include:
- Fresh Baked Cookies.
- A Homemade Card with a Kind Message.
- A Candy Bar or Favorite Treat.
- A Coffee Mug with Some K-Cups.
- A Small Item He or She Collects (e.g., lawn ornaments, stuffed animals, Hello Kitty figurines, etc.).
- A Special Gift for His or Her Pet! (Pet owners appreciate others loving on their pets too.)
- Even Something You Already Own You Think He or She Would Appreciate.
It truly is the thought that counts.
When Gift Bombing, Remember…
- Write the name of the intended recipient on the package (if you know it) to avoid confusion.
- Leave a note of some kind. “I was thinking about you and wanted to send you something to brighten your day! Love, a Friend.”
- Attempt to remain anonymous, but if they figure out it was you, smile and tell them they are welcome when they thank you.
- Prepare for the occasional negative reaction. Some people struggle to trust others who give for no expected reason. If a neighbor, co-worker, or even friend figures out you were the giver and he or she reacts ungratefully (or even angrily), immediately begin praying for him or her. Do not give bitter seeds a chance to take root and praying for those who hurt us is the most effective way to keep our hearts clear of weeds.
- Give with the correct attitude – always for the pure joy of lifting someone’s spirit and hopefully spreading Christ’s love – never expecting a tangible return on your investment.
- Couple your gift with prayer. Drop off the present and get out of there quickly; but, as the day goes on, ask God to pour out His richest blessings on that person. To encourage and lavish His love on him or her.
- Keep a journal of what you gave and to whom. Maybe plan another “visit” in a few months?
Couple Date!
Create a January calendar filled with fun, new experiences, and giving. Gift bombing is all three! Pencil in a few days this month to carry out your day-brightening plan, and if at all possible, do it with your sweetheart. One of you can drive the getaway car! ~smile~
The couple that gives together…finish this statement:
- …grows together?
- …lives together?
- …spends less time fighting and more time enjoying precious moments together?
Creating a culture of sacrificial giving within your relationship will always make it better – if your ultimate goal is to bring honor and glory to God.
Give this a try! You may like it. See if it does not help your January pass a bit quicker and easier! You might even be sad to see the month end. ~smile~
“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:3-4, ESV)
Who did you gift bomb and how did it go? [Comment below!]