Day 9. Surprise Gifts
Welcome to Day 9 of the “30 Days Blessed This Christmas Blogging and Social Media Challenge. Today we’re going to explore the concept of surprise gifts from unexpected people at unexpected times or places.
When we think of surprise gifts, maybe something material comes to mind, like a certificate for a therapeutic massage. This is a nice present, no doubt. But it’s not the kind of gift we’re referring to in this gratitude exercise.
A surprise gift, in this case, refers to a “kiss from the universe,” or something unexpected yet delightful, that seems to be exactly what you need at just the perfect time.
What might be some good examples of a surprise gift to be grateful for as a kiss from the universe?
A kind gesture that someone offered you. Maybe it’s a paid-for treat from a stranger at a coffee shop, or someone offering to give up their parking spot at a time when you were running late for an appointment.
A listening ear and bit of good advice from a person you only know only casually. It could be someone who works for your child’s school, or an acquaintance you’ve chatted with at the grocery store.
Some children from the neighborhood who show up offering to do a housework or yard cleanup, on a day when you can really use the help.
A kind compliment paid by a stranger. Or even a kind compliment paid by your husband or wife!
A ride to the hospital from a coworker.
A “kiss from the universe is cause for celebration, and that’s what feeling blessed is all about.
Exercise 9: Count Up Your Kisses from the Universe
When was the last time you received an unexpected gift, a surprise kiss from the universe, or a “paid forward” unsolicited act of kindness?
Even though some days may seem like a struggle of long lines at the store or being stuck on hold with customer service… there’s still so much to be grateful for. So count up your kisses. How many kind gestures were bestowed upon you this week?
Journal It.
Make a list of all the little ways people brightened your days with their thoughtful and unexpected gestures, no matter how small.
Maybe it’s even something so subtle as a glance of understanding during a tense moment.
It could even be a hug from someone you barely know.
Those little gestures really go a long way to make us feel special and loved by the people around us.
30 Days Blessed Challenge
- Day 1: Attitude of Gratitude
- Day 2: Accentuate the Positive
- Day 3: Slow Down
- Day 4: What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger
- Day 5: A Cup of Self-Reflection
- Day 6: Give Thanks for the Simple Things
- Day 7: Hard Times Help Us Appreciate the Good
- Day 8: Nourish Your Soul
Loving Life — The Reboot!
Dominique
10 Comments
Tessa
This is so true! There are so many small moments each day that show kindness from those around us. It is really powerful to take time and appreciate each one – totally shifts my mentality!
Jody
Journaling is a great thing I do in life. I love getting journals of any kind. I have so many now that it is crazy but I just love them so much.
Renata
I love any kind of countdown before Christmas – be it something spiritual like in this post – or even materialistic things like a beautiful Advent calendar – have a wonderful holiday time 🙂
Maysz
I do journalling even though not all my plans are not successful but I’m still thank you because I have a good health which is very important specially now in pandemic.
Monidipa
Your idea of journaling is really good and I guess that it is high time that I start it too!
Michele
I made it a point this year to write handwritten Christmas cards to my friends/family. On some cards, I wrote funny sayings in, but on others, I wrote a heartfelt note letting them know I see them and all the wonderful things they are doing. Sometimes they don’t get the congratulations they deserve. I am grateful to put smiles on others’ faces.
ChristianForemost.com
I really need a surprise frrom the universe right about now. I feel like it’s been against us all year. Maybe love? Please? Hahahahaha
Kenneth
kindness and gratitude doesnt have to be expensive,,,its better to give what you can afford.its not the amount..its all about what comes from your heart
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