Lessons from the Christmas Tree

The tree doesn’t think about it.

It just stands tall and gives of itself naturally. It cleans the air and soil. It offers shade, color, and homes for countless animals, birds, and insects.

Even when the tree is dead, it offers its body to us as furniture, houses, warmth in firewood, paper, and more. The tree is useful and giving in life and in death.

If you were to ask the tree what are its gifts, would it know how wonderful it is?

George Bernard Shaw put it like this: 

“I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake.”

Everybody has a special gift that is uniquely expressed in a way that cannot ever be recreated by someone else. 

This is why it is essential that you give what you’re here to give. 

The gifts have a life of their own, and seek to be born through you to bless the rest of us. And you become blessed as a result of blessing others.

If you don’t share your gifts, but keep them only for yourself, you’re stealing from those who need what you can offer. 

And you’re robbing yourself from the rewards that come from helping others. (Sorry if that sounds harsh.)

I love the way my teacher puts this:

“Each one of you is a special gift on the planet! You are the Christmas tree.

The Christmas tree is pointing upwards and its branches grow on all sides, and we all have that capacity to blossom to the fullest of the human potential.

At the time of year when no tree bears anything, the Christmas tree has many gifts to offer and it is evergreen throughout the year.

A Christmas tree bears the gifts and the lights not for itself, but for all.

The gifts you are carrying in your life are for others. You offer the gift of service to anyone one in need, and you will [be amazed] at how your needs are then taken care of!”

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, The Art of Living Foundation

You are the Christmas Tree and you have gifts to bear.

Never underestimate the power of your gift, even if it feels very small. The world needs your gift. It is a sure way to helping bring peace and joy to the world.

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So how can you identify at least one of your gifts and strengthen it?

What are you naturally good at that others notice?

Chances are, you take your gifts for granted. This is natural. It comes so easily to you that you could do it in your sleep. You ask a few trusted friends or family members what they think you’re especially good at.

And here are a few questions to help get you started:

  • Maybe you’re a really good listener. This is a gift! Most people walk around feeling unheard in their lives. Think of how wonderful it feels to be truly heard!
  • Maybe you’re a beautiful dancer, and your movement brings joy to those who witness you.
  • Have you been told that your smile lights up a room? That is a special power.
  • Do you have a beautiful voice? Your gift could be melodic song that uplifts.
  • Are you great with technology? Your gifts are very necessary.
  • Are you good with children? Just think of all the parents and children who need your energy.
  • Are you able to make delicious food?
  • Are you skilled with animals?
  • Are you a warrior for the environment?
  • Are you a spiritual teacher?
  • Are you good at thinking of others and making them feel cared for?

How to strengthen your gift into your super power:

  1. Please take stock of at least one of your gifts.
  2. Give thanks for it.
  3. Start cultivating ways to improve upon what’s natural so that you can bless the world with it (ie, taking a class or reading up on how to improve it).
  4. Ask yourself: How many people in your community need your gift? Who can you give it to this week?

Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have. – Margaret Mead

Now, I want to hear from you!

  1. What is one of your gifts or talents?
  2. How will you start sharing your gift more in the coming year? You can start small!

Please share in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear from you! =0)

Comments

2 responses to “Lessons from the Christmas Tree”

  1. ravi says:

    thanks ya’ll love the help from Mike is getting reaquainted with your web site

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