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The Act of Giving

© Mary Wilson

Last week, we discussed physical gifts for the bird lover, such as magazine subscriptions or bird toys. But there is one other type of gift that most bird lovers will appreciate above all else, and that is a donation to an avian organization. There are bird groups out there to meet just about every taste. From Irene Pepperberg and her work with the African Grey Alex, to several parrot rescues, a finch rescue, and wild parrot conservation groups. The gift doesn't even have to be monetary. Just as old blankets and certain household cleaning items might benefit a humane society, so too, would a bird rescue appreciate home made bird toys, or the same cleaning supplies.

Unfortunately, around this time of year all sorts of organizations seem to "come out of the woodwork" demanding that everyone get into the spirit of the season. While this isn't bad, so too, must we remember that these same organizations don't operate just during the holidays. A donation can come at any time of the year and is welcome year-round.

You don't have to give for somebody either. Although it is a thoughtful gift to donate in someone's name, a simple gift because you felt like giving also is appreciated and thoughtful. Some bird rescues operate out of people's homes, which makes any gifts that come in all the sweeter, for these people use their own personal funds to do the work they love.

So, how does one going about giving a gift on behalf of someone for the holidays. First, ask the person. Perhaps he or she already donates to an organization and would love a helping hand with the cause. Or maybe there is another cause that the person is interested in, but simply doesn't have the funds to support. Also, if this person is involved in the avian community, there might be things that you could do for them that mean more than a gift of money. For example, most bird clubs have a raffle table. If the person wanting to give has a hobby, such as needlework, perhaps a piece created especially for the raffle table would be a good holiday gift.

Not everything has to come down to donations of money or merchandise. The giving of time is an equally precious gift this holiday season. From a gesture as simple as offering to watch one's flock while he or she goes to a holiday party, to a dedication of a certain number of hours each month at a rescue operation, the act of giving time is the most personal gift of all.

The copyright of the article The Act of Giving in Small Hookbills is owned by Mary Wilson. Permission to republish The Act of Giving in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.