“Recognize your special uniqueness as your gift to the world which you can offer in multiple ways.” – Bonnie Fatio

What is your special uniqueness that can be offered as a gift to the world? We all have greatness within us! Even if a bed measures one’s boundaries, the challenge most of us face is to accept and acknowledge the special gifts within us.

Did you know that there are actual health benefits to giving? Studies have found that giving can not only lower your blood pressure but it can lower your stress levels too. Who would think that giving of your time, through volunteer work, could increase self-esteem, decrease depression and lead to a longer life? Researchers also think that giving back might give individuals a “happiness” boost by providing them with a neurochemical sense of reward.

In this month of thanksgiving, I challenge you to find your special talents and give them to the world.

It is always lovely to receive a package to unwrap with anticipation of discovery.

The greatest gifts are those that come from the heart and the gift of self.  Are you wondering what to offer someone?  Offer yourself!

• Offer your time to do something with your children or grandchildren that they are dreaming to do with you; take a half day vacation.
• Offer to teach a friend how to use all of the bells and whistles on their mobile phone.
• Offer a box of homemade goodies.
• Offer to help your partner create a winter garden.
• Offer a page of special photos.

By offering your time and talents you also offer yourself several keys to AgeEsteem: purpose, social contact, learning something new, celebrating with people of other generations…