Give Your Talent (and Love) Away!

One of my most treasured gifts is a sapphire-blue shawl that my zia Elizabetta (I call her "mammina") crocheted for me with her two little hands. Another are the two baskets that my almost 90-year old zia Cristina wove for me from the dried leaves of the wheat plants in the fields that she farms (even now at this age, she weaves beautiful baskets without eyeglasses!).

I don't know how hand-made gifts came to lose value in our eyes next to factory-made store bought replicas of each other, but somehow this sadly happened, and it is up to all of us to bring back the value and appreciation of making or receiving something made with a persons energy, time, thoughtfulness, and love.

Whatever your talents are (writing poetry, pet care, painting, playing a musical instrument, baking. knitting, etc), list some ways you can turn them into gifts of love for the people you care about. You don't have to wait for a holiday to do this. Value the time and thought you put into this expression of your soul, and when others give you gifts that express their own spirit, honor it and thank them graciously.

In this economy homespun gifts save money and convey a warmth far greater than something made in an impersonal factory line.

The dolce vita way of life is all about going back to simple and authentic. Express who you are through the fruition of your unique talents. You will find that your light in this world shines a little bit brighter, each time, and will put a smile on many an appreciative face.

Need a little help in living a life of simplicity, balance, and fulfillment? Tell the Dolce Vita Life Coach about your dreams and goals, so we can come up with a plan to make them a reality. www.dolcevitaseminars.com

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