The season of love and joy is here, and who doesn’t like celebrating this time of the year with family and loved ones? Well, there are several individuals in society who work on Christmas, or their jobs keep them away from their loved ones. My Kolkata brings you a list of things you could do that doesn’t necessarily need to be materialistic, but are small gestures that could make someone’s day. Check out these ideas and spread the Christmas cheer with those who may not experience the same joy as you do.
Security guards/housekeeping staff
A small gesture from you could make a service personnel’s whole day iStock
If you live in a gated community, then there are several support staff around you whom you probably see on a daily basis, but don’t stop to interact with. This Christmas, spend a little extra time and speak to any of these individuals. It could be the security guard, the liftman, someone from housekeeping or even the plumbers and electricians. When you see them, stop and talk. To you, it would be just two minutes of your day, but for them, it could make them feel like they matter — a feeling that isn’t always bestowed upon them. If you find out that they have children, give them a chocolate the next time you cross paths and ask them to give it to their child. A small gesture from you could just make their whole day or even be the highlight of their week.
People on the streets
Getting an additional layer of clothing to survive the winter could be a lifesaver for people on the streets iStock
We all have closets full of clothes that either do not fit us or things we will never wear again. Why not clear up that closet? Pack up your old and unused clothes and give them to someone who needs the warmth as the chill sets in. For you, it will not be a big deal, but for someone on the street getting an additional layer of clothing to survive the winter you will be a life saver. Do not do this to feel superior, or because you think it would make for great content on your Instagram. Do it out of the goodness of your heart and the actual will to help someone in need.
Celebrate Christmas with the elderly
Christmas can be a lonely experience for many elderly citizens, and those in old-age homes iStock
Ever wondered what Christmas is like for those elderly whose families have abandoned them? These senior citizens don’t need much, they just miss their children. If you and your friends do not have any other plans for Christmas, do a quick search for old-age homes in your locality and head over there with some cake. If you know a few carols and are someone who knows how to play the guitar, share the cake and sing a few carols to make them feel loved. You will enjoy spreading Christmas cheer, and seeing the joy on their faces will surely make you even happier.
Celebrate Christmas at an orphanage
Not all children can celebrate Christmas the way we would them want to iStock
If you really want to help put a smile on the faces of those less fortunate, spending Christmas at an orphanage is a thoughtful way to spread the season’s joy. Take some cake and some toys. If you cannot bring individual toys for all the children, sporting equipment like bats and balls, or even a badminton set, is something that everyone can share and enjoy. Go to an orphanage and see how you can put a smile on the faces of those little ones who are bereft of parents.
Donate to a noble cause
Donate a little extra this festive season to an organisation helping those looking for upliftment iStock
Various NGOs are looking for support to help those looking for upliftment. Find a cause that appeals to you and donate a little extra this festive season so these organisations can carry forward the good work they do.
Be kind with your bike/cab drivers
Be kind and generous to those who drive you this festive season iStock
If you are going out on Christmas day, be it a lunch or dinner or just an outing with friends, and if bikes or cabs are your preferred mode of transport, then be kind to those who drive you. Remember that while you are out to enjoy a holiday, they are still working long hours to support their families. Give them a little extra when you pay at the end of the ride. It doesn’t have to be too much, it could be Rs 10 or 20 more. Give them that little bit extra and wish them a Merry Christmas. You may never meet that cabbie again, but you will surely have made their day, not because they are whole lot richer by your contribution, but because you were kind and generous to them.