Christmas: A Celebration of Giving I used to think giving was something we did out of duty, but I believe, for me now, it comes from love for God and a wish to respond to the needs of the world. It also comes from a wish to express loving kindness, goodness, and gratitude for all that has been given to me. I was fortunate to be raised  in a family that embraced generosity. My parents gave faithfully to their church and they were also generous to others in need. My mother visited friends who were sick and wrote hundreds of cards and letters to her family, neighbors, and home-bound friends.  Their giving was not out of…