A December of Giving: Finding Joy Beyond What’s Under the Tree

There’s something magical about December—the way the air feels crisper, how lights twinkle a little brighter against the backdrop of long, dark nights, and how the world seems to collectively pause for a moment of celebration. Yet, if I’m being honest, my Decembers in the past weren’t always filled with this kind of reflection.

I used to approach the holidays with a certain kind of anticipation, but it wasn’t the meaningful kind. I’d think about what I might get—what gifts I’d unwrap, which surprises were waiting for me, or how my wish list might magically become reality. I’d measure the success of the season by the size of the pile under the tree or the excitement of opening something I’d been hoping for.

This year, though, it’s different.

It’s like something inside me shifted—a quiet nudge that kept whispering, “There’s more to life than this.” And as I sit with that thought, I realize how true it is. This December, all I want is to give. To pour myself into the people and causes I care about. To focus less on what I’m receiving and more on the joy I can bring to others.

It’s funny how giving has a way of changing you. It’s not something that happens overnight, but slowly, over time, I’ve started to see the bigger picture. Giving isn’t just about the material things we offer; it’s about our presence. It’s about the small ways we show people they’re seen, valued, and loved. It’s about stepping outside of ourselves to notice the needs around us.

This year, instead of rushing to finish my shopping list, I’m taking the time to think about how I can make the season special for others. Maybe that looks like donating to a cause that’s close to my heart. Maybe it’s taking a moment to write a heartfelt card to a friend I’ve lost touch with. Or maybe it’s something as simple as smiling at a stranger, paying for someone’s coffee, or holding the door a little longer than usual.

Here’s what I’ve learned: when you give without expecting anything in return, it does something to your heart. It fills you with a kind of joy that doesn’t fade when the wrapping paper is thrown away or the decorations are packed up. It’s a joy that stays, a warmth that lingers.

This December, I’m making a conscious effort to embrace that. To focus on what I can give to the world instead of what I can get. And here’s the beautiful thing—I’ve found that when you give, you actually receive more in return. Not in the material sense, but in ways that are so much more meaningful. You receive connection, purpose, and the incredible feeling of knowing you made a difference.

And that’s not to say it’s always easy. There’s a part of me that still fights the urge to want more, to cling to the comforts of consumerism, or to measure my worth by what’s wrapped up and handed to me. But when I take a step back, I realize that the gifts I remember most aren’t the ones that came in boxes. They’re the moments—laughing with loved ones, offering a shoulder to cry on, and knowing I’ve been there for someone when it mattered most.

So, this year, I’m leaning into giving with my whole heart. I’m reminding myself that it’s not about how much you spend or how big your gesture is—it’s about the intention behind it. Maybe you don’t have the resources to buy expensive gifts, but you have time. You have kindness. You have the ability to make someone’s day just a little bit better, even if it’s in the smallest way.

And here’s what I want to say to you: if you’re feeling overwhelmed this holiday season, remember that you don’t have to do it all. You don’t have to give extravagantly to give meaningfully. Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that come straight from the heart—a listening ear, a thoughtful note, or a simple act of kindness.

This December, let’s focus on the things that truly matter. Let’s show up for each other in ways that bring love and light into the world. Let’s remember that the holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about connection. And at the end of the day, the greatest gift we can offer is ourselves.

I’ll leave you with this: Giving doesn’t just change the person on the receiving end. It changes you, too. It reminds you of what’s important, centers you in gratitude, and helps you see the world through a lens of abundance rather than lack.

So, here’s to a December filled with giving. Here’s to finding joy beyond what’s under the tree. And here’s to creating a season that’s not defined by what we receive, but by how much love we give away.