This is the time of year when many of us worry about size, color, cost, and suitability of the gifts we give to others. In addition to personally-chosen presents, we open our wallets and give to those charities close to our hearts and hope that our contributions help to ease the lives of those less fortunate than we.
A long time ago I discovered the red-colored, one-size-fits-all, extremely valuable gift that has never failed to please the recipient. It's no secret that giving blood through the Red Cross can literally be a gift of life for someone. (I am doubly blessed because I have a special blood that can be used for new-borns.)
The process involves a nano -second of pain and an hour's time. Shut your eyes if you can't watch! Read a paperback for the 10-15 minutes you are actually in the donation chair. And then enjoy some free coffee, sandwich, and a cookie! You may even get a tee shirt for being brave!
Yes, I know some are not able to be donors. If you are not sure whether a medical condition or drugs you may be taking would make you ineligible, a quick call to your local Red Cross would answer your question.
Why not suggest this gift giving to a relative, neighbor, or friend? If you are an employer, why not give an employee time off to donate? Anyone between the ages of 17-100 is acceptable! Once you have given the gift of life to someone you will never know, you will feel the thrill of giving of yourself. Best present a person can give himself/herself.