Writers give every time they create—whether fiction or nonfiction. Words possess healing, connective power; sincere actions represent generosity in its finest form. 

Christmas reminds us that giving isn’t limited to monetary gifts. The season is also a time to share what we’ve penned in carefully written sentences and in ways that also offer joy, hope, entertainment, inspiration, and encouragement—which doesn’t come in colorful paper and enormous bows. The recipient may not be a reader, but they will remember your generosity. 

We give not to climb a bestseller list, but because compassion and gratitude overflow from our hearts. How we share with others during this joyous season reflects our thankfulness for the blessings we’ve received throughout the year.

Here are a few ideas to inspire our Christmas giving.

1. Write a holiday short story or poem and share it online with our readers. This is my favorite. Use a royalty-free website to create a cover. Consider Pixabay or Unsplash.
2. Encourage another writer. Can you help them in a way that adds value to their life? Send them a note of appreciation or support.
3. Host a holiday brunch or gathering for writers or friends and neighbors. Give a book or other gift item.
4. Guide a budding writer for a few hours on craft, marketing, or promotion. Perhaps social media consultation.
5. Thank local bookstores by visiting their stores, buying locally, or delivering treats for their breakroom.
6. Wrap books and send them to friends, family, hospitals, or nursing homes.
7. Share our writing tips, along with the latest publishing and social media info.
8. Donate one month of royalties to a charitable cause that means much to us and our community.
9. Address those who have blessed and inspired us this year. Many times, these special people do not know they have touched our lives. Show your gratitude in unexpected ways.
10. Design and personalize a holiday greeting from a site like BookBrush or Canva. These can be sent electronically or printed and mailed to brighten someone’s day.
11. Give beyond the page:

• Volunteer to read to children.
• Serve in a community or church environment to benefit the needy or otherwise forgotten.
• Look for ways to show gratitude to first responders. 
• Sponsor a needy family or child with gifts and food. 
• Consider a gift and handwritten letter to military personnel.
• Sing in a church or community choir. When did we last sing carols?
• Offer to help a single parent during the busy time.

The best gifts don’t always fit under a tree or arrive wrapped in sparkly paper but from those hearts willing to give their time, talent, and abilities.