I’ve always thought that the phrase “spending time” was a bit strange. It seems to turn time into some sort of currency, and while time may be money, I can’t help but think that there’s a better use for it than spending.

In many circles and systems, giving and sharing are looked upon with great favor. Most people would agree, especially around the Holidays, that it is much better to give or share one’s resources then it is to spend as much as we can. Generosity is the sign of a content heart. I believe our time works in the same way.

We all know that feeling when someone is spending time with us. It’s as if during the entire conversation their mind is constantly on something else. It’s clear that in their eyes, they could be spending their time on something much more significant and important.

This is not true for those who give or share their time. For such people, time is a gift. It’s showing up and saying, “Hi friend, this next hour or two is my gift to you. My time may be limited, but I would like nothing more than to share it with you.” This, to me, is how we can most effectively use our time. It is in giving or sharing our time that we receive the intangible, yet powerful gifts of love, companionship, and community.

So how do we use our time well? To me, that’s the same question as, how do we use our money, talent, or resources well. The answer is the same, and beautifully simple. Share it with others.