We make a living by what we get.
We make a life by what we give.

~ Winston Churchill

No gift is too small. Donating old clothes, or new unwanted items, utensils, toys and books is a great way to give. If you have clothes or something else to donate just go ahead and do it. Every small gesture counts. Organizations like Goonj are great for such donations, but there are plenty of other organizations which could use your things too. Try places like orphanages, Homeless peoples' shelters etc.

Just keep the following in mind:

Call ahead. Not every organization or shelter wants used stuff. Some accept "gently used" items, but many will only take new ones. Find out what the organizations need - and what they don't.

Be a courteous donor. No worn out clothes, with stains, tears, or holes.

Get your friends or family members involved. Ask them if they can find anything they'd like to give.

Besides money and material items there is so much more we can give, for instance:

•    The Gift of Interest. By showing interest in others we satisfy their need for attention. And isn't it interesting that, only after we express interest in others do we find how interesting they are?
•    The Gift of Recognition. How many times have we felt frustrated because our achievement and effort went unrecognized? So do give generously the gift of praise where it is due.
•    The Gift of Acceptance and Unconditional Love. Your teenage daughter has pierced her eyebrow and you think there's nothing you can do about it; don't fret there is something you can do, give her the gift of acceptance. All our lives - from our parents, peers, teachers, to our bosses, our spouses, and even our children; people seem to be telling us what to do and how to think. No wonder people crave for acceptance.
•    The Gift of Patience and Understanding. Tired of waiting in the bank queue, we can smile and offer the gift of patience and understanding to the stressed-out bank teller.

But the greatest gift we can give to our loved ones and others is our time. What better way of expressing love than by devoting time to those we care about and those in need. Even a fraction of your time is just as valuable as any financial donation - and will be enormously appreciated. It doesn't matter whether you visit elderly people at an old age home, or read stories to underprivileged children; the time you spend will be greatly appreciated by others and make a meaningful impact on their lives. And it will leave you with a feeling of achievement, and knowledge that you have made a difference (read our article -Volunteering and its Benefits).

Doing good can be contagious. You may decide to keep the spirit of giving going the whole year round - not just during the festivals. Look for other opportunities to help out on your own or with family and friends. You'll be amazed at how being generous toward others who don't have as much, can open your eyes to all the remarkable things to be grateful for in your own life!