Maybe This Christmas, It’s Time to Give the Greatest Gift of All
By Melissa Gilbert
The holidays are a time of joy, togetherness, and giving. For many of us, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of finding the perfect gifts to wrap in shiny paper and place under the tree. Don’t get me wrong—giving gifts is a beautiful way to show love and appreciation, and it’s one of my favorite traditions. But this year, I’ve been reflecting on another kind of gift—the kind that doesn’t come with a price tag or a bow.
Maybe this Christmas, it’s time to give the gift of ourselves.
There are so many ways we can help those in need, and often, it’s our time and care that make the biggest impact. Volunteering at a local shelter, food bank, or community center can bring comfort and warmth to someone who’s struggling. Giving blood—a small act that takes just an hour—can save lives. Checking in on a neighbor or offering a helping hand to a friend in need can make all the difference in their day.
I’ve always believed that the true spirit of the holidays lies in connection. It’s in showing up for one another, lending a hand, or simply listening with an open heart. These small acts of kindness ripple outward, creating something much bigger than ourselves.
The beauty of giving your time is that it doesn’t have to be extravagant or complicated. It can be as simple as making a warm meal for someone, volunteering to wrap gifts for a local charity, or even taking a moment to write a heartfelt card to a person who could use a little light this season.
Of course, there’s room for all kinds of giving. Gifts can be meaningful and special, and I love the thought and care that goes into picking out something just right for someone you love. But what if we balanced the gifts under the tree with the gifts of time, care, and compassion? What if this Christmas, we focused not only on what we’re giving but also on how we’re showing up for others?
Giving your time is one of the most meaningful ways to spread joy and hope during the holidays. It’s a gift that can’t be wrapped but will be remembered far beyond the season.
So, this Christmas, I encourage you to think about ways you can help someone in need. It could be a stranger, a friend, or a family member who could use a little extra support. Because when we give our time, we’re giving the best part of ourselves—and that’s the most precious gift of all.
Wishing you love, light, and meaningful connections this holiday season.
With warmth,
Melissa Gilbert
17 comments
Merry Christmas to you and yours, Melissa. Little house on the Prairie was my favorite show growing up. I am just a few months older than you and wanted to be you in that show. I was a tomboy just like little Laura Ingles and I looked forward to your show Every week. My parents would only let us watch one television program a week and little House was always my first choice. I’m so glad that it is remained in syndication all of these years. The themes and topics are as relevant today as they were 50 years ago. I’m very happy for your post little house success and wish you nothing but the best always. Again, merry Christmas and happy new year to you and yours. 😊🎄
Hello Melissa, I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas. I live in North Central Arizona, and we celebrated with family and friends this year. Coming from a family of 13 kids, we always had a huge gathering for the holidays, and birthdays. The Chaos, and craziness goes with having loads of fun with them. Happy New Year, and God Bless. Ramona Brown
Happy Holidays. Am so enjoying my mug and other items I ordered. Plan to place another order later this winter. Melissa wrote to our family at age 13, and so wish I could attach that letter. It showed even back then how gifted and intelligent Melissa was as just a young child. My favorite line she wrote… “she took ballet lessons starting at age 4 and loved it. Had chores to do but when she was naughty got grounded.” Even then such a great sense of humor!
Blessings to her and all the staff at Modern Prairie. Barb from Fitchburg Wis.
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Love the idea of giving of ourselves. My Mum died this year – she made it to almost 100 – and she was always very giving especially around Christmas. I reached out to all her friends who are still with us, and made sure they weren’t alone this season and had everything they needed. It will be an ongoing thing for me and my kids, to reach out to the very senior seniors – some of whom even have children who have predeceased them, to make sure they know they are loved and not forgotten. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Thank you Melissa. Merry Christmas to you and your family! I learned to give myself from my mom and grandmothers. All 3 are in heaven now. I just hope that I do as great a job as they did.