The Art of Giving

The holidays are fast approaching, and the season of giving is in full swing. Nothing evokes winter quite like the crisp chill in the air, cozy nights filled with classic Thanksgiving and Christmas movies, and the endless baking adventures happening in my kitchen. Add in a steaming mug of peppermint hot cocoa, and I’m in my happy place. The pinnacle of it all is when we begin decorating for Christmas—not long after Halloween, though the tree doesn’t go up until after Thanksgiving. I look forward to the celebrations that capture the essence of the season in small and meaningful ways. All these traditions bring a sense of warmth and belonging. There’s truly nothing like the joy of the holidays—but it makes me wonder: how can we extend these sentiments throughout the year?

Although this season is traditionally celebrated as a time of selfless giving and compassion, the cultural tone has noticeably shifted over the years. What was once rooted in acts of kindness and communal spirit now often feels reduced to the transactional ritual of exchanging material gifts. The deeper meaning—connection, generosity of heart, and community—can easily get lost in the noise. While gift-giving tends to peak during this time, it’s worth pausing to reflect on why we give—not just during Christmas, but as an ongoing expression of empathy and care throughout the year.

Giving is more than a physical exchange; it is a mental, emotional, social, and spiritual offering. Whether it’s a tangible item or something as simple as shared time and presence, the heart of giving lies in thoughtfulness, love, and intentional connection. This is what makes the act of giving so powerful and enduring. To truly embrace its spirit, here are three core aspects of authentic giving that empower us all—beyond the holidays and into everyday life:

1. Give selflessly, without an agenda.

In today’s world—where so much is publicized and acts of kindness are often performed for recognition—genuine giving can feel rare. But true generosity comes from a place of sincerity, not self-interest. The focus shouldn't just be on the act itself, but on how it is received and the impact it has. When giving becomes about optics or personal gain, it loses its essence and becomes a mere transaction. Authentic giving builds bridges of compassion and connection within a community—it should never come with strings attached.

2. Give without expecting anything in return.

Real giving isn't about reciprocity; it’s about responsibility—social, communal, and human. Those with more have the privilege to uplift those with less, whether or not the gesture is ever repaid. In some cultures, there isn’t even a word for “thank you” because generosity is so ingrained—it’s simply a way of life. Growing up in a culture where kindness, sharing, and bartering are part of daily existence, I’ve come to understand that giving is the foundation of community—not a favor, but a shared understanding of support.

3. See giving as planting seeds. 

Every act of giving is a seed planted, one that may bloom into a connection, trust, or a deeper relationship. Whether you're offering your time, attention, or even a simple gift, you’re creating space for something meaningful to grow. Often, it’s not the object or gesture itself, but the intention behind it that resonates. Giving is a way of saying, I see you, you matter, and that kind of energy has the power to echo far beyond the moment.

By keeping these three elements in mind, the art of giving becomes easier. At various points in life, we are all both givers and receivers, making it essential to adopt principles that nurture a mindset of generosity as a shared social responsibility, not just a kind gesture. While this may sound idealistic, consistently practicing these values can offer deeper insight into the true purpose of giving. There is joy to be found in giving—not in the reward, but in the connection it creates and the humanity it honors.

Photo by @krystynwhitty via Black Girls With Gardens