Tip #19: Do something nice every day

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Make a phone call. Offer an encouraging word. Lend a helping hand. It means a lot more than you think. For example, my cousin Jessica often leaves little notes when she visits, whether on a sticky note on my mirror or somewhere on my phone. They are simple messages that bring a smile to my face. It's one of her many ways of saying, "I love you." It's so simple, and yet so beautiful. And I love her for it.

Reaching out to others is an essential part of our spiritual lives. God has called us to love. To serve. In doing so, not only do we share the love of Christ with people around us, but God loves us in return.

[G]ive and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put in your lap. For the measure you give will be the measure you get back. (Lk 6:38)

It is sure to get even more hectic during this last week before Christmas. Taking the time to think of others can help you continue to celebrate a beautiful Advent: less stressful, more meaningful and more focused on Christ.


You can find more tips on decreasing stress in Advent here.