There is something special that makes holidays meaningful and fun. The overwhelming consensus of Americans is that we believe in sharing our wealth regardless of our income level. The holidays are a particularly good time for this. What is exciting in this day and age is that with technology, we can reach across the city, nation and world to give gifts that really change lives in fundamental ways.

I love going through the on-line catalog of Heifer International, as just one example. I can buy gifts of ducks, rabbits, goats, bees, or other animals to a village on the other side of the world. And I can donate those in someone else’s name. This is especially helpful when I am stuck trying to think of something to give to someone who has so much. I’ve done that many times. Last year I was delighted when my daughter decided to give a gift of ducklings in my name.

In Home – Inspired by Love and Beauty, I explore the idea that a house pays attention to itself while a home wants to make a contribution beyond itself. This is true all year round. While I strongly advocate that technology not be invited to the dinner table, I greatly value it as a tool for connecting the world. We can do that in so many ways. Some websites let you invest in entrepreneurs or donate to specific projects or people. Donors don’t have to write a check to an organization and hope that it reaches someone in need. They now have much more direct connectivity if they want it in bringing joy to the world.

Giving freely from the heart has a compounding effect. Both the giver and receiver end up on the receiving end.