“Each one must give as she has decided in her heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

— 2 Corinthians 9:7

It’s a lot more fun to give than it is to receive. When you give of yourself, give of your time, and give of your treasure — and when you do it voluntarily, with a smile on your face, and you do it with cheer — there is just no better recipe for a warm heart.

Throughout your day, keep an eye open for ways to give, or just proactively offer assistance.

• Give an unexpected small gift to a coworker, from out of the blue, just to say thanks for being a good friend.
• Buy an ice cream cone for the little girl standing in line with her mom.
• Give a meal to the homeless man you’ve seen near the grocery store. Ask him for his name, and let him know you will be praying for him.
• Stop by an elderly neighbor’s home to talk over coffee.
• Give cash to the local Catholic school, knowing your gift will help to build a foundation of faith for dozens of children.

Sometimes we can give and be generous by not helping at all! Maybe you’ve been “the pancake guy” at your parish breakfast for the last 25 years. And maybe there’s a young man who seems very interested in your pancake talents! Rather than “owning” the task and not letting him help, offer to show him your best tips, and start to teach the next generation. Give him the spatula and coach him. With cheer, you are giving him value, and providing a task that he can be proud of for years to come.