The final week of the Lift Project is titled “Giving is Living.” Giving is mostly thought of in terms of material gifts, goods and services that we give to others. While it is so important to give things to others less fortunate than ourselves, it is also vital to give from within the things we cannot put in a box.

You are a gift to the world and you bring with you internal gifts that are unique and special, that someone needs and can benefit from. Who you are and your special traits can help so many people. It is vital for not only our own well-being, and emotional and spiritual growth, but essential that you share “give” your gifts with someone.

Some may say how? What Do You Mean? I’m not that great, or what do I have to give? I’ll tell you: You can give a hug, a smile, say thank you, help someone who is struggling mentally or emotionally by just reaching out and being there. You can ask someone if they need help, make someone laugh, bring a gift you know they need or reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while.

You see, when you give in these seemingly small ways, you are growing and expanding someone’s joy, showing care, being compassionate and empathetic, spreading kindness, giving love — just by sharing your special gift of light and love for others.

Thank you for giving yourself every day, to each other, to our kids and to yourself. This week, ask yourself: How can I effortlessly give by just being me?

To share how you have been a light for someone else, email Andrea at taita@victorschools.org.