“Boxing Day” originated in the United Kingdom, and it began with the noblest of intentions. Though there are varied ideas as to what the first Boxing Day looked like, we know it had something to do with benevolence being “boxed,” and given as an outreach to the poor, every year on the day after Christmas.
As in so many other areas of modern life, consumerism has managed to overwhelm the original purpose of Boxing Day, and it is hard to imagine how something with such philanthropic beginnings could have evolved into an event that is now polar opposite to the spirit of giving. Today’s Boxing Day is similar in nature to Black Friday: the day after Thanksgiving, known for door crasher deals and extreme spending. The stark contrast between what Boxing Day was created to be, and what it is today, is blatant testimony to the harms that excess has brought into our modern way of life.
Despite our cultural differences, one thing common to humanity is our need to give and receive love. What if we laid aside our differences to restore Boxing Day to its original roots, and perpetuate its intended vision this Christmas season? Perhaps goodwill and thoughtful deeds could begin to bridge the chasm of our widely divided world. Imagine it being that simple. If enough of us do it, it will be.
Recycle
Let’s face it. We all receive gifts each Christmas that we wouldn’t buy for ourselves. Instead of returning them to the retailer on December 26, why not re-box them, and pass along our brand-new, unneeded gifts to someone who does need them? Instead of redeeming restaurant gift cards, why not pass them on, and bless someone who seldom sees the inside of a restaurant? Instead of throwing away your Christmas dinner leftovers, why not make a plate and take it to a lonely neighbor? Your blessing will be greater than theirs, guaranteed.Care Boxes
Buy items that are most needed by the homeless: deodorant, soap, bottled water, nonperishable, individually wrapped food items, socks, gloves, hats, blankets, coats, pillows, toothbrushes, and toothpaste are a few suggestions. Add something fun, such as a deck of cards, a book, a small board game, a radio, or a CD player with an uplifting CD. Be sure to include extra batteries. Box the items, wrap them beautifully, and deliver them to a homeless shelter, mission, or directly to a person in need. Imagine the smile on someone’s face as they see the thought and care you put into meeting their needs and making their day!Give What Can’t Be Boxed
Not all charitable acts are tangible. In fact, some of the most meaningful ways you can show compassion and generosity have nothing to do with things at all. Choosing to pour yourself into the lives of others is one of the most selfless things you can do to revive the intent of Boxing Day.Offer to do a dreaded chore for your spouse. Compliment your child. Speak uplifting words to those you love most—and least. Volunteer. Find a charity, soup kitchen or ministry in need of help, and spend the day serving others. Help lift the load of a friend by offering to run errands, do laundry, clean the house, or cook a meal. Spend an hour or two with a shut-in. Listen, and let them tell you the stories they yearn to share.
Visit your parents, grandparents, or other loved ones—on the phone, or better yet, in person. Don’t rush. During your time together, do something they like to do. Even if it isn’t your favorite pastime, make the day all about them.
Tutor a struggling student. Give an employee unexpected, albeit much deserved, time off. Buy a police officer or soldier a meal. Mentor someone who wants to learn. Teach goodness by example. Pay for the groceries of the person in front of you in line. Go the extra mile. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
