Simple Ways to Show How Much You Care

There are times when you just don't know what to say. When those we care for are going through difficulties or life-changing moments in their life, we want to reach out--to touch in some way--and to show them how much we care.

But it's hard to come up with the right words or the right things to do that will be helpful to them. Remember that your words don't have to be poetic. Every kind word and thought, that comes from a friend, is precious.

Here are some suggestions. Read through them with an open mind and you'll probably think of others to add.

Send a Card

This is the first thing we usually think of. But don't just sign your sign. Even if you only say, "I'm thinking of you" or "I thought of you when I read this card", the few caring words can make a big difference.

But make that card even more special by:

• Adding a photograph of a happier time or place
• Add a comic strip that fits the occasion
• Share a special memory
• Include a gift card or gift certificate for a favorite restaurant, a movie theatre, a massage, or even for a hot fudge sundae at McDonalds.

Send A Gift

A gift doesn't have to be large or expensive -- just meaningful. It could even be small enough to include in the card. How about:

• A small box of Chocolates
• A Teddy Bear to hug
• An angel pin
• A token gift of something that is meaningful to both of you
• A one-pot serving of a special coffee, tea, chai, or hot cocoa
• Include a mug with the beverage
• A gift certificate created by you offering a ride or just a time to talk.
• Drop a casserole by their home -- to serve for dinner or stick in the freezer.

Give Yourself

• Give a hug
• Call and ask how they are doing. Sometimes it helps to just talk about it to a friend. Make sure that they know that it's okay not to just answer "Fine."
• Offer to take them to lunch or even just out for coffee
• Offer to babysit if they have small children.

Life continues. Life-changing events happen to each and every one of us. And it's all too easy to let those moments, that can mean so much to someone, slip past without our saying a word.

Joyce Reid is the owner of Creative Gifts To Go LLC and operates Teddy Bear Gifts, Unique Gifts , and Corporate Promotional Gifts. She enjoys helping others choose gifts for those times when words aren't enough.