Watching TV. Playing video games. Going to the movies. Hanging out at the mall. All are ways of spending free time.

These activities can be enjoyable and, at the very least, provide diversion from the stress and monotony of day-to-day life.

But do any of them yield a long-term sense of gratification and fulfillment? Are any of them productive or of help to the world?

Not really.

But there is an activity that lives up to these ideals and more.

Volunteering.

Yes, I said volunteering. The word is synonymous with community service and involves putting the good of others before oneself. It's required for high school graduation and it looks quite nice on college applications.

But why would anyone want to volunteer? Could volunteering possibly be fun?

The answer is yes.

Take it from someone who volunteers quite frequently. Volunteering is so much more than just "work" and it truly is enjoyable.

Granted, helping out at a food bank or picking up trash may not be your thing. That's what is great about volunteering, though- at least some aspect of it appeals to everyone. If you're interested in animals, you can lend a hand at a local animal shelter.

If you like children, volunteer with an organization that supports at-risk youth. If you are fascinated by medicine, help out at a hospital. The possibilities are literally endless.

It's unfortunate that so many people have a negative perception of volunteering- so much so that many refuse to try it unless doing so is required of them.

Perhaps people feel they don't have adequate time for volunteer work or maybe they are simply unaware of the limitless benefits associated with it.

Believe it or not, giving to others is really more rewarding than receiving tangible gifts for yourself. Material items, while nice for a time, eventually break. But the treasures of community service never go away.

Bringing a smile to the face of a sick child or finding a loving home for a neglected dog are actions that leave a warm feeling in the heart. Knowing that you've done something kind for someone else is a feeling that never goes away.

We all have so much to be thankful for. Even when we're having bad days, there are many people in this world whose lives are million times worse.

So, be grateful for all that you have and take this holiday season as an opportunity to help someone less fortunate.