BE the Change in Your World This Thanksgiving

Donating to the needy might not be at the top of everyone’s shopping list, but that’s why physical reminders of  the importance of giving are needed. Caught up in the commotion of our own lives, we can all use help overcoming  the distractions and indifference that prevents us from helping to alleviate suffering in our communities.

For many of us, it’s a Thanksgiving tradition to drop a few coins in the Salvation Army’s red kettle outside our local grocery. It’s quick, easy, and has real impact – last year, more than $139 million was raised by red kettles to provide services ranging from hot meals to warm beds for homeless and impoverished Americans.

This year the need is greater than ever, with more than 44 million Americans on food stamps.

While you’re out doing your grocery shopping today or tomorrow, be on the lookout for stressed-out impoverished moms who don’t have enough money to buy good food, and slip them a five, a ten, or a twenty. It is not going to make a difference in your life-style. And when you see those worn-looking children in the cart, or hanging on the moms, be sure to compliment the mom on what a good job she is doing, managing her child in a crowded store in these times when money is so tight.

It’s difficult to give people money sometimes without them acting a little insulted. Here’s how we do it:  We put money in five or ten envelopes, inside a little card. On the outside, we write, “To a good mom.” On the inside, we write “Here’s your bonus for being a good parent. Maybe you can buy something extra healthy for your child and you to eat.  Happy Thanksgiving from Someone who cares..”

Then I say “Congratulations,” and slip away.

Pledge to do your part to fight hunger in your own community this holiday season. In giving thanks this week for what we have,  let’s not forget to also extend a hand to those in need.

BE the change in your world.

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something.” Helen Keller

Remember the Kids

Remember the kids–They’re like kites
You spend a lifetime trying to get them off the ground.
You run with them until you’re both breathless.
They crash. They hit the rooftop.
You patch and comfort, adjust, and teach.
You watch them lifted by the wind and assure them that someday they’ll fly.
Finally, they are airborne.
They need more string and you keep letting it out.
But with each twist of the ball of twine, there is a sadness that goes with joy.
The kite becomes more distant, and you know it won’t be long before
that beautiful creature will snap the lifeline that binds you two
together and will soar as it is meant to soar, free and alone.

Only then do you know that you did your job.

by Irma Bombeck

note: I posted this today to remind myself of this, as my sons left today (still remembering to always say I love you before they leave) to go shopping for for college Dorm supplies for the new school year.

*sigh* it never gets any easier when they leave …