By May Hunter, For Iron County Today
Have you ever considered giving the gift of time? It’s very easy to be wrapped so tightly in a package of being too busy, tied with a ribbon of hurry and do this and hurry and do that. There is shopping to do, parties to attend, cards to sign (if you had time to make some this year). But is there room to give the beautiful gift of time, wrapped with love?
Start with your own family, and if you don’t have family or they don’t live close, find others who don’t and establish a neighborly bond.
Giving your time as a gift means offering your attention and presence to others, which strengthens relationships, reduces stress, increases self-esteem, and shows how deeply you really care—especially through active listening, sharing experiences, or helping with any tasks needed. Prove that love is shown in action, not just words. Create meaningful connections and support for lonely, busy, or struggling people. Try activities like volunteering at shelters, helping neighbors with chores, babysitting for an evening, sharing meals, or just going to visit to lend a listening ear, making the holiday season more joyful and less materialistic for everyone.
We have several senior living facilities and nursing homes in Iron County; find time to stop in and offer to read to a resident. Be friendly, smile, be a good listener, and start conversations by sharing hobbies or asking about interests. Experiences are often cherished more than objects.
Many people, young and old, male or female, healthy or not, can suffer from loneliness. At Christmas, that loneliness can feel worse because Christmas tends to be all about families. But not everyone has a family. To help everyone have a good Christmas, start with kindness and service.
Focus on the spirit of giving without a thought of getting. The best gifts are shared time, love, and presence with family and friends, highlighting simple moments and traditions. Just being together creates lasting joy and warmth more than material things. Focus on togetherness, reflection, and making memories. Christmas is best spent with those who make your heart feel at home. The love of family and friends is the true magic of Christmas.
Christmas gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on all the important things—this Christmas, give your time.
Family and friends make Christmas brighter, one smile at a time.