3 Ways to Get into the Holiday Spirit
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Even though it may not feel like it yet, the holiday season has arrived and soon many of us will become preoccupied with cooking, shopping, decorating, and party planning. At times all of this can make it difficult to remember the real purpose of the holidays, and how important it is to give back.
If you are feeling distracted, you can use your passion for film, activism, and social media to help create some holiday cheer for yourself and others, just in time for Thanksgiving day.
Why not try hosting your own film screening this year? Instead of watching hours of football on Thanksgiving (and with the lowly Detroit Lions playing, it won’t be that exciting anyway), think about screening a film made by you or someone you know. Even a small group can help spread the word about a film and get its message out to a larger audience, and you’ll have a chance to bring people together.
Fans of social networking can help make a difference from the convenience of their own computers. Twitter users can join Epic Change‘s Tweetsgiving. Launched last year, this two-day project asks users to tweet what they are most thankful for, accompanied by a $10 donation towards the building of a school in Tanzania and future Epic Change projects.
Those who are inspired by flash mobs - the current social trend of, seemingly spontaneous, organized gatherings that are happening all over the globe - or the power of collective consumer spending might consider participating in their local, or organizing their own, Carrotmob action. Carrotmob is a network of thousands of organized consumers who buy products in order to reward businesses that are making the most socially responsible decisions.
For something a little unique that will last you through December, try the 29-Day Giving Challenge. Created by Cami Walker and based on an African ritual, it asks participants to give something away each day, for 29 days. This can include anything from donating food to a local shelter, or giving your time by reaching out to a friend in need.
The commitment to selfless behavior is aimed towards personal enrichment, as participants share their own giving stories with one another via the site’s blog. 29Gifts.org also highlights a new cause each month, based on the participants’ experiences, creating awareness and new opportunities for others to contribute.
As November winds down, these are simple and powerful ways to remind us of what the season is all about. They will help to bring some holiday spirit, no matter how crazy one’s life may be.
By Emily Exton
