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5 ways to serve others

5 ways to serve others

If you are wondering how you can share a bit of cheer during the holidays, remember that little things make a big difference. A smile, a helping hand, or a listening ear can make others feel so much better. Here are five ways you and your family can serve others.

Give service to your family members

Often we think of homeless or strangers when it comes to service, but service can be easily given to those you live with.

  • Do a chore for someone else.
  • Do the dishes, mop the floor, pick up toys, make their bed, and share your food.
  • Visit family members who may be lonely and take a special gift or make plans to take them out for dinner or a movie.
  • Hold the door for your spouse or help your siblings.
  • Express appreciation and love to your family.
  • Keep promises you have made to them to develop lasting trust.

Give service to your neighbors

  • Rake their leaves or shovel their snow.
  • Watch out for neighbors in need of immediate help.
  • Take in dinner for families who have an illness.
  • Offer to clean their home or watch their children with no expectation of compensation.
  • If someone is moving, offer to lift heavy furniture, pack boxes and label them and donate their extra stuff to second-hand stores.
  • Help clean their old home and yard.

Give service to the weary

Give your time to listen to someone who is feeling down.

  • Take a walk with them.
  • Be empathetic to their concerns.
  • Encourage them, share uplifting messages, sing to them, and be a true friend.
  • Have compassion by suffering together with another who is mourning the death of a loved one.
  • Be genuine.
  • Use positive dialogue and don’t judge.
  • Seek to inspire others by your actions.

Give anonymously to a charity

You do not need recognition for giving as it makes the receiver feel obligated.

  • When able, give to a charity of your choice, a school or other well-intended organization.
  • Be free with your substance including sharing your wisdom or expertise.

Give service in your community

Serving people in your community makes that community healthier and stronger. You will meet new people and better yourself in surprising ways.

  • Mentor a child who is falling behind, donate blood, or volunteer at a soup kitchen.
  • Run or walk in a charity race with friends.

All humans have the same basic needs. Look for opportunities to fill those needs. Serving others makes you feel good. You make new friendships and strengthen old ones. Service shows others you think they are important. It is really one of the best ways to spend your time. The more you serve others, the more natural it will be. Service will improve your outlook on life and you will be more grateful for what you have.