Because giving can improve mental health and loneliness

We were visiting grandparents. Grandma was busy-bodied as usual, walking up and down checking on everyone, asking what we needed. She held up a packet of bread. Do you have enough bread for tonight? she asked. I replied that we did. Some eggs? she asked again, looking around her kitchen. Are you trying to get rid of us? I asked, laughing, Weve just come to chat. Come, sit down. She sat down for a second, then asked grandson, Have you eaten? Do you want some toast? He shook his head.

She rubbed granddaughters head and admired her hair, then stopped short, Have YOU eaten? Let me see what I have

Giving was on his mind. As part of a lovely tradition, his school takes students to three destitute homes annually, where they contribute to the lives of under-privileged groups through song, conversation and physical gifts. Children are encouraged to bring living essentials (not comforts) to school which is then handed over on the visits.

Just going through the list of suggestions is an exercise in introspection. When children read toothpaste, soap, dal, rice, they realise that these things cost; and that there are people who need to ASK someone to get these simple things for them. Its making them think a lot. So, this time around, Im not grabbing from my own grocery stock and sending packages. Im actually going to take a few minutes to let the children help me decide what to give, meaningfully. If we dont spend time thinking about it, we will end up detached, and cold to the cause. What a waste of an experience.

Suddenly, Mr. Dad made a contribution. You know, he said, I was reading today, that Hebrew people dont believe in charity. We were all ears. I expected an opportunity for critical thinking a parenting must, so that you raise children who can think in more than one (opinionated) direction.

He continued, They give a lot and call it justice. Because thats what it really is. Sharing and giving is the just and right thing to do. Make things equal, or at least do your part to prevent people suffering from lack.

Whoa!

Ready to start giving? Youre in the right season! This is not just about your cupboards getting lighter, so you can stock up more. Its about giving so you make someone else feel that people care. Yale University professor, Laurie Santos, says that giving increases gratitude. One totally selfish reason why you should!

Giving improves your own mental health. True too.

But here are a few things to check en route that giving journey.

* Your attitude when an opportunity to give arises. Even when reading and reacting to circulars that children bring n Your understanding of value.

Check deeply - most stem from our past/parents. Yeoww!

* Attitudes are contagious. Make sure yours doesnt stink! I know a few blissfully unaware parents who wonder why their kids behave weird. I stifle giggles in my head.

* Dont force children to give. Dont guilt trip them (every parents no-fail tool). Just do it yourself. They will follow. I promise

Link:
Parentry: The season of giving and kids - Bangalore Mirror