More Kindnesses

From Stan:

I did do something, and though it did involve money, I think it was important and the right thing to do. For the past few weeks I have been reading almost daily in our local newspaper how food banks are in dire need of food to give to people requiring help. So on Monday, Dec. 22nd, I went to Sam's Club and bought $275 worth of food (flour, rice, pasta, canned meats, sugar, coffee, etc.) and delivered it to Martha for The Homeless. Martha is an elderly African-American woman who has been running a food bank out of her garage for several years - with the blessing of the City and State. I had called her the week before to see what she might need - and she gave me a list (long) of basic items. Well . . . I did the best I could and I know it was a help.

I decided that I really, really don't need to load up friends and neighbors with more material goods, not when there are people hungry for the basics. I also don't really need another sweater - a book, maybe, but sweaters and gadgets - no. It felt good to do this and next week I plan on going through our pantry and freezer and making another donation. I did not take a tax form from her - I don't itemize anyway - and this is not something I would deduct. It is NOT charity - it is concern for those around me who have a need I can do a little bit to assuage.

When you really get down to it, all we have is each other. Merry Christmas to ALL.


From Jessica G:

I had the chance to see something very beautiful a few days ago while out shopping for those last few gifts for Christmas this year. My dad and I were in the car on our way to Target. Traffic was ridiculous. All of a sudden, a truck broke down several cars in front of us and had the intersection completely blocked. I expected to hear a chorus of honking horns and angry shouts from the busy shoppers rushing to finish their errands, but instead, people came from all kinds of cars to help this elderly gentleman push his truck out of the intersection, into a gas station parking lot to get repaired. Even a homeless gentleman, sitting with a sign on the street corner, jumped up and ran to help out. It was a magical moment. It really exemplified the true Spirit of Christmas.

I pray you and your beautiful family have a wonderful Christmas with many more to come! Thank you very much for including me in your wonderful tradition! I know Theo's watching.