In with the new, out with the old. With the seasons changing and the holidays just around the corner, people find the Christmas spirit drawing them to give back. Giving back looks quote different as of late, as tools like GoFundMe and Twitter have changed the way in which people give back. I personally hit up the soup kitchens and rock my hairnet during the weekend with my family, knowing every person that comes through the door is greeted with a smile and a warm meal, leaving with new friend and a full stomach.

I know that not all people are comfortable enough to stand on the serving floor and greet people, but even helping in the back cooking the food and making the plates holds a certain personal sentiment. Once all the people have left the dining room, you can help clean and prepare for a dinner rush or for the meals the next day. Some might prefer just donating money through a GoFundMe. There is nothing wrong with this, as donating in any form is significant.

Does this hold the same meaning, though? Where is the smile, the conversation, the feeling you just made someone’s day by simply being with them and giving them your time?

My church goes to a soup kitchen every other weekend and it is rewarding to sit and talk to someone about their day and what they plan on doing in the future. In a generation that has lost their ability to hold meaningful conversation, taking an hour or two to lend your ear is an easy way to practice active listening and compassion. These people need someone to vent to or show a friendly heart. Not only are they getting a hot meal, but they are getting company that they would not normally get.

People love to talk about themselves, but they love it even more when there is someone who is listening to them. After a couple of days working in a soup kitchen, you start to see familiar faces and continue conversations started previously. This is how trust is earned and relationships are formed.

Soup kitchens are not the only way to get out in your community, as the ways to get out and give back are seemingly endless. You can clean up neighborhoods or buy gifts for families in need.

People may be able to donate money virtually or send gifts to hospital patients with the click of a button, but there is nothing that can replace the feeling that donating your time and presence to those in need. One of the only things robots and e-everything cannot take the place of is mere human kindness.