THE GIFT OF LISTENING- To give this giftyou must really listen!   So many times we pretend to listen and allow our attention to be diverted,  or else we hear only those things that we want to hear.  � This time listen.   No interrupting.   No daydreaming.   No sharing your attention with the television or newspaper.   No planning your response or your argument.   Try to put yourself in the persons position and feel the words they are speaking.
THE GIFT OF AFFECTION-Be generous with appropriate hugs,  kisses,  pats on the back,  and hand holding.   Let small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.   Some older people,  and people with handicaps and disabilities,  go days without any physical contact by another human being........show your love to humanity by reaching out to them in particular.
THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER-Learn to say "I love to laugh with you".    Clip cartoons that you think others will enjoy.   Share articles and funny stories.   Don't be afraid to laugh at yourself.
THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE- A handwritten note may be remembered a lifetime and may even change a life.   It can be a simple "thanks for the help",  or something spectacular.  � Just take the time to let others know that you appreciate things that they have done.   Or,  go the extra mile and write a note just to tell someone that they have inspired you,  or that you admire a certain quality they may have.
THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT-Most of us spend our lives fishing for a compliment,  or looking for approval,  and we fail to realize that others need to hear a kind word or two.  � A simple and sincere "You look great in red",  "You did a super job" or "That was a wonderful meal",  can make someone's day.
THE GIFT OF A FAVOR Every day go out of your way to do something kind for someone else without expecting something in return.
THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE-There are times that we want nothing better than to be left alone.   Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.
THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION-The easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone.  � Really it's not hard to say "hello",  or "thank you!"   Make an effort to look on the bright side of things and to see the best in your fellow man.