The best gifts are not the most expensive goods in
the store. While they impress for the moment, it's
the lasting ones that make an impression. The
gifts on this list cost almost no money, but they have
great value. When you give one of these, you are
giving a priceless gift - yourself.

Gifts you can give:

- THE GIFT OF LISTENING. One of the greatest
things you can do for another person is to listen
without interrupting, daydreaming, or thinking
about your next leap into the conversation. Put
down what you are doing (even if you are on the
phone), and zero in on the words, feelings, and
intent of the speaker.


- THE GIFT OF COMPLIMENT. Help people reach
their full potential. Catch them doing something
right or well. Compliment children for listening, for
their smile, for giving a hug, or for sharing. Vow to
compliment your spouse every day. Compliment
co-workers, store clerks, and your pastor.


- THE GIFT OF SHOWING AFFECTION.
Demonstrate the love you feel deep inside with
hugs, kisses, a gentle squeeze of the hand, pats
on the back, and smiles.


- THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER. Everyone loves to
laugh. Try to see the humor in day-to-day living.
Develop the ability to laugh at yourself. Don't take
things so seriously.


- THE GIFT OF CHEERFULNESS. Decide to have
a good day - no matter what. This means no
complaining, no feeling sorry for yourself, no nasty
comments, and no screaming. Your gift of
cheerfulness will be precious for everyone around
you.


- THE GIFT OF DOING A FAVOR. Help with the
dishes, type a letter, run an errand, or watch the
neighbor's kids. Volunteer to help a co-worker
finish a project or bring cookies to share with the
office. Most important, have the attitude and
willingness to help out another person in spite of
your busy schedule.


- THE GIFT OF CONTACT. Write notes as simple
as Thinking of you today. Telephone or send
birthday greetings. Make short phone calls if
someone is having an especially trying time.
Reach out with support and encouragement.


- THE GIFT OF ACCEPTANCE. Relax. Accept with
fortitude the things you can't change in your life,
and what others can't change in their lives. Enjoy
people for who they are and relate to them in the
present.


- THE GIFT OF PRAYER. This is the best gift you
can give. Pray for people with full compassion and
concern. Pray for them when they are in need and
when they are experiencing blessings. God wants
to be a part of every person's life. Pray particularly
for those who don't know Christ as their Savior. Be
persistent in your prayers for them