Is there something you’re good at that puts a smile on someone else’s face? Do you paint, garden, craft, bake, play an instrument or write poetry? When it comes to saying “Thank you,” “Happy Birthday,” “Happy Valentines’ Day,” or just “I’m Thinking of You,” nothing says it better than sharing a part of you in a one of a kind way. This way you are truly giving from the heart.

How do you give from the heart? It doesn’t have to be a special season to share a part of you. Cooking and baking are two personal ways I show I care. I started doing it when I was a little girl with my mom, and so it is in my DNA. If you’re like me, you’re lucky there are many opportunities to share in this way with others. Whether at your church or synagogue, school or work there is a place for you to share. Of course, keeping it simple and making it pretty is easy to do. With a little cellophane wrap, ribbon and a cute label all available at your local craft store, your gift is sure to put a smile on the face of any recipient.

Perhaps there is a place that has touched your life at one time  or another. Giving from your heart is a great way of saying  thank you for what they have done for you personally. Or  maybe you would like to acknowledge the volunteers at your local animal shelter because you love animals. Small gestures can go a long way in making a difference in someone’s day, even if it’s just to express “I’m glad you’re here.” No matter  how happy it makes your recipient, you will be pleasantly surprised that it will make you even happier.

Thought for the Day: Today, I share my talents to acknowledge the gift of other amazing people in my community. By doing so, I contribute to raising the vibrations of our collective energy.

One place I give regularly is at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles on Sunset Blvd. Their Spiritual Care Guild makes it simple to share two of my favorite things, homemade cookies and tea, with caregivers who work selflessly around the clock. These wonderful individuals have devoted countless hours to making the lives of very special children healthier. And even though they won’t see me or my family, they will feel our well wishes when they stop during their busy day to have a warm healing cup of tea and a cookie from us that says, “Thank you for what you do!”

You might be thinking that these caregivers have the means to get themselves a cookie or a cup of tea, which is absolutely true. But it’s about so much more than that. It’s about saying, “I see you and what you do for others.” It acknowledges their hard work and dedication to the community in a sweet way, whether they are doctors, nurses, or clergy members, and sends positive and uplifting energy that can be passed into their work.

So be mindful about the abundant ways you can give from the heart to someone you know or perhaps even someone you don’t know. Pull out that favorite recipe that everyone loves and share your treats. Do whatever it is that makes you YOU. Invite some family or friends to join you. Your kindness will keep you peaceful and warm your soul. It warms mine.