EIGHT SIMPLE GIFTS
		 
Halloween is over, the Thanksgiving leftovers are almost gone, and the stores have 
already adorned themselves in the garb of Christmas.  While still several weeks away, I 
know many are already shopping for those special gifts for family and friends.  While a 
beautifully wrapped present is always nice, some gifts come without giftwrap.  Why not 
consider some of the following lifetime treasures?

	1) THE GIFT OF LISTENING... 
But you must REALLY listen.  No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your 
response.  Just listening. 
	2) THE GIFT OF AFFECTION... 
Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds.  Let these 
small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends. 
	3) THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER... 
Clip cartoons.  Share articles and funny stories.  Your gift will say, "I love to laugh with 
you."
      4) THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE... 
It can be a simple "Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note 
may be remembered for a lifetime, and may even change a life. 
      5) THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT... 
A simple and sincere, "You look great in red," "You did a super job" or "That was a 
wonderful meal" can make someone's day. 
      6) THE GIFT OF A FAVOR... 
Every day, go out of your way to do something kind.
      7) THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE... 
There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those 
times and give the gift of solitude to others. 
      8) THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION... 
The easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone; really it's not that 
hard to say "hello" or "thank you."

Happy gifting!

Leslie S. Chapman