Generosity
It’s the annual run up to Christmas and as any parent knows, that means the Christmas catalog has to be duct taped to keep it together for another few weeks. Whether it’s just the general excitement and anticipation, or the unfortunate combination of tired parents and kids, there is nothing worse than seeing a child of any age kicking and screaming in a store because they want something and right NOW! Of course it doesn’t just happen at this time of year, but often enough that you have to wonder why.
Generosity is a difficult concept to teach. In our family, we were always encouraged to express what we would like to have, and told that Santa would try to bring us one thing we really wanted, and some other gifts. Because if everyone wanted the same things, then the elves wouldn’t have a chance to make enough for the whole world. So Santa would go down his lists and make sure everyone got something that was important to them. It worked for us, and it’s working for the next generation too.
I’ve always believed in teaching my children the value of giving and the courtesy expected when receiving. They’re young yet so the concept of other children not having toys is a difficult one. That Santa might not visit everyone is even worse. We’ve covered that by explaining that Santa lets other children who have more than some, become Santa’s helpers by donating toys that they don’t use anymore. By choosing one or two that are in good condition, and donating it to a group who makes sure they are clean and gift wrapped, it gives them a sense of being part of the giving, and for me, that’s a pretty good start.
