Every year, the same message is everywhere you turn: This Christmas, give the gift of giving.This sounds like the perfect gesture, but how many people actually put this suggestion into action?

You hear people all the time say they want to give or need to give, so why don’t they just do it?

People often say they don’t have the time, money or resources to give to others.

But let’s face it: It’s just an excuse. Anyone can join in the spirit of giving to others if they just put forth the effort.

At TCU alone, there are plenty of opportunities to give to the less fortunate.

For instance, TCU’s annual Christmas tree lighting Thursday will give students the opportunity to give to those others. The gifts that students bring to the Christmas tree lighting will go to Tarrant County Child Protective Services.

By giving to these children, you are not only supporting them but contributing to a good cause.

Salvation Army Angel Trees are another opportunity to give to those in need. The gifts you give to the Angel Tree go straight to the Salvation Army.

In reality, there are no excuses for not being able to find a charity to support.

You can give if you have any source of income or any time on your hands. The amount is not as important as the action.

Just remember waking up on Christmas morning as a child and seeing all the presents from Santa. You can be Santa to those in need – and that is the greatest gift of all.

This Christmas season, think of others over yourself and you’ll find that it is more rewarding than you ever imagined.

Give the gift that keeps on giving: Help others have a brighter holiday season.

Jacquilee Killeen is a senior broadcast journalism major from Lubbock.