IN the blink of an eye, we have reached the end of another year.
With the Yuletide season comes a time of celebration, joy and giving.
While the holiday is often associated with the exchange of physical gifts, its true spirit goes beyond material possessions.
At its very heart, Christmas is about God, love and relationships.
For Christians, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s greatest gift of salvation and forgiveness.
Therefore, gifts should be valued beyond price tags or wrapping paper. What truly matters is the thought, effort and people behind the gifts that make them special.
I recently came across an article on holistic philanthropy, which highlighted various ways one can give back through the “5Ts” of time, treasure, talent, testimony and ties, three of which our Student Life Department has adopted for our students and alumni to encourage giving from the heart.
Each of the Ts represents an aspect of our connection and relationship with other people.
During the holiday season, these aspects can hold deep significance and lasting impact; going beyond material value, they help to strengthen the true meaning of Christmas. Let us take a closer look.
Time
This is the gift of being present. In our fast-paced world, time is precious.
The gift of time, be it through spending the day with a loved one or simply offering a listening ear, is often more meaningful than any tangible gift.
This gift prioritises someone else’s needs by being fully present with them in the moment.
In giving someone our undivided attention, we are offering a valuable gift. It could be having a quiet evening at home, sharing a meal or volunteering together for a good cause.
The gift of time is a way of showing that the person is important to you.
Treasure
This is the gift of generosity. Treasure, in this context, refers not only to material wealth but also to the act of sharing our resources – money, goods or even food – with others.
Generosity is fundamental to the Christmas tradition. Donating to charities, giving gifts to friends and family, or simply providing for those who are less fortunate echoes the heart of the season.
In a world where consumerism often overshadows the true spirit of Christmas, sharing our abundance with others can help make the world just a little bit better.Talent
This is the gift of skills and creativity. Each of us is blessed with unique skills or abilities, whether in cooking, art, music, or other talents that can bless others.
There are many ways one can contribute: a performance, home-baked treats, handmade cards or ornaments with a personal touch, or simply helping someone with a task or project that aligns with one’s expertise.
These acts can be valuable and deepen the sense of purpose and fulfilment for those who give.
Beyond material value: Tangible gifts are not the only way to show love and appreciation to loved ones. – 123rf.com
Testimony
This is the gift of words and stories. I love to listen to people’s stories and experiences.
The closing of the year is a time for reflection and thanksgiving, perfect for sharing how we have been blessed or how we have grown through the challenges of the past year.
Testimonies are not just about recounting past experiences but also about offering encouragement, inspiration and hope to others.
It could be a heartfelt letter, a shared memory, or even a verbal recounting of how the year has shaped us.
These stories can inspire faith, love and hope in others, strengthen bonds, and help people feel connected to something larger than themselves.
When we share personal experiences, we offer more than just words; we offer understanding, empathy and support.
During the festive season, some people face loneliness, grief or uncertainty; the gift of testimony can be especially meaningful.
Ties
This is the gift of relationships and connection. Sometimes, the best gift we can give is simply a reminder of how much someone means to us.
Whether it is through a warm hug, a sincere “I love you”, or simply spending quality time together, the ties we build with others are the most lasting gifts we can offer.
In a society that often values individualism, the gift of ties is a reminder that we are all connected and that our relationships are at the heart of what makes life meaningful.
Let us take some time to reflect on the ties that bind us together –family, friendship and community – and to appreciate those who are important to us.
Strengthening these connections often requires effort, making this gift one of the most valuable and enduring presents we can give.
True spirit of giving
In a world where Christmas can sometimes feel commercialised, may I suggest these gifts from the 5Ts? They transcend material possessions and highlight the importance of human connection, love and generosity.
While the Christmas season has passed, the spirit of giving, selflessness and compassion can last throughout the year. In the new year, let us remind ourselves that the most valuable gifts are not always those wrapped in shiny paper, but rather those that come from the heart.
To all readers of The Star, I wish you a blessed Yuletide season of giving and a Happy New Year.
Prof Datuk Dr Elizabeth Lee is the chief executive officer at Sunway Education Group. A veteran in the field of private higher education, Prof Lee is also an advocate for women in leadership. She has been recognised both locally and internationally for her contributions to the field of education. The views expressed here are the writer’s own.
