Mele Kalikimaka to you and your Ohana (Family)
"Mele Kalikimaka" (pronounced [ˈmɛlɛ kəˌlikiˈmɐkə]) is a Hawaiian-themed Christmas song written in 1949 by Robert Alex Anderson. The song takes its title from the Hawaiian phrase Mele Kalikimaka, meaning "Merry Christmas".
Different types of giving this Holiday Season
When one of my boys complains about not having money over the Holidays to buy gifts for us, I ask them to write me and my husband, Kelly, a letter. No special topic, just a freeform letter to each of us expressing whatever they want.
It has become our favorite tradition and I’ve kept these letters through the years. They’ve become my treasures and my favorite gifts.
While the season to shop is here, I wanted to share a reminder of the many ways in which you can give that doesn’t have you reaching for your wallet every time. Sometimes, the greatest gift is priceless. See the list below for inspiration.
Give to yourself
We can’t give of ourselves if our own cup is empty. During the time when friends and family come together for meals and events, let us first consider our own health and wellness.
We touched on this in the previous blog about keeping calm during the Holidays with a little meditation or prayer. Whatever gives you peace and fills your soul - do it! Read a book, go for a hike, enjoy a cup of coffee at your favorite spot or finally book that massage appointment!
It’s also near the end of the year so it’s the perfect time to reflect on what brought you the most joy and make a commitment to do more of it in the coming year.
Give to family and friends
You’ve probably heard about the, The Five Languages of Love. It’s a concept which identifies five uniques ways in which people either show or express love. Words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch. Considering the needs and wants of the other person allows us to deepen our connections.
And connecting with friends and family during the Holidays can look as simple as spending quality time together and having a chat, or performing a simple act of service like washing the car or making a meal for a friend, or writing someone a letter.
Doesn’t that define the reason for the Season?
Give to charity
If you’re looking for a way to make an impact, then consider making a donation to a charity that supports a cause close to your heart. You can make a financial contribution directly or as a gift in honor of someone. You can also give your time by volunteering.
Here at Sati Gems Hawaii we take giving back very seriously, therefore, your purchase makes a difference, every jewelry piece sold. $1 goes to organizations that empower women and children as well as animal rescue organizations, to name a few, PAWS of Hawai, Ho’ola Na Pua is committed to the renewal of trafficked girls, I-India’s child protection program, Eco Femme, and Charity Navigator can be a great resource to find a charitable cause to support. Learn more here
While there are many options, and it can get a little overwhelming, a good thing to remember is that no one can do everything, but everyone can do something. Start small.
Give from love, not for love
I wish you peace and joy today and always.
Xoxo,
Liza