Recently I participated in a gift exchange/Secret Santa where each person put out suggestions on gifts their Santa might get for them. But I thought we all have too much “stuff” so I asked my person what their favorite charity was and I could donate. They said, “I don’t know. I don’t have one.” We ultimately decided on a good cause, and I donated in their name.

I have been pondering this ever since. Why do I choose to give to charitable organizations? What directs me to get involved and give back? Why am I so passionate about it?

Well, I know I was raised to do it. My parents were always involved in church, volunteering, tutoring, camps, helping friends in need, being volunteer coordinator at Habitat in Tulsa, and on and on. It was just part of our way of life.

I have also read that people who give of themselves to others have larger amygdala (the part of our brain that is important in processing emotions with increased function regarding generosity.) So, maybe I come from a family with big amygdala! Maybe I am “genetically predisposed?”

All I know is that my heart is fuller and my spirit lighter when I give back with my time, money, talents and prayers. Giving back means getting out of my SELF and focusing on others. Focusing on others gives me perspective on what’s important.

Whether it’s here in OKC at my church or the OKC National Memorial (& Museum), or around the world with World Neighbors, I find joy and experience gratitude. I grow in all the important ways when I give and become involved.

There are so many worthy causes in our community and our world. Find one, get involved and watch your life get better.

More: Stop giving your time away to what doesn't matter | Opinion

As a new year begins, many of us are making resolutions — eat better, slow down, be healthier, do more good. But what if our resolutions reached beyond ourselves?We live in a world where cruelty is often normalized and compassion can feel optional. In moments like this, choosing to care is a powerful act. Choosing kindness — even when it means rethinking old habits — can change more than we realize.

One of the simplest ways to live that value is by rethinking what’s on our plates. Choosing plant-based meals means choosing empathy over indifference, and compassion over habit. It’s a daily reminder that our choices affect others — animals, the planet and even future generations.In a world where it can feel like people have stopped caring, choose to be the difference. Choose to care. This year, let your resolution be one that reflects the kind of world you want to live in.― Addison K Chantz, Washington, DC