I'm not sure how to express myself without sounding boastful or patronizing others. I can genuinely say that I have been extremely ignorant, and Christmas is always a time of year I realize just how ignorant I can be.
Now, more than any other time of year, people like to give. I can be pegged as that person who may not be the most giving, but when Christmas time rolls around I am much less selfish! I really do try to give, but honestly... it's not on my mind like it is at Christmas. Maybe it's the countless movies, programs, country songs, etc... reminding us of those in less fortunate circumstances than our own.
At Christmas, Mike and I try to give monetary gifts to people in need. We have always done it anonymously, and have tried to be discreet and generous. This year, we obviously know that with the economy in the toilet, people are in need more than ever. We were hoping to see if we could help someone nearby this year.
Last night, we became aware of a family who we could serve. I was taken back... and initially thought I heard wrong. It was someone I thought I was fairly close to, and had NO IDEA they were having tough times.
Later that same night, I came across a friends blog, to find her family was also in a tough spot. Again, NO IDEA.
I went to bed last night with many emotions... first, I have been walking around completely unaware of those around me. People I know are in need, and I have been oblivious. I'm not sure I could have changed any situations... but perhaps just understanding and being sensitive to certain things... little things. Second, I am not grateful enough for what I have been given. For things like food, clothes, and the ability to turn up the heat five degrees instead of putting on socks. I like to think I'm grateful for the extras... the spoils. But I'm not thankful for the basics.
And last (but not least) I need to be better at sharing what I have. I can't give everyone 'cold hard cash'... it would be great if that were possible, but I can't. I CAN however, invite people over for dinner, give people things I don't use or need, offer to drive places, have kids over to play and eat... so many things that seem irrelevant in my world.
Growing up, we had an opportunity to give to a family nearby. And while they only lived around the corner... I didn't know them. It was a 'sub for Santa' type thing, and it's the most specific childhood memory I have of Christmas. When I was older... like 13... we served Christmas diner at a homeless shelter in downtown LA. Again, a wonderful memory of true Christmas spirit.
Mike and I we both raised in families where we got to be the recipients of Church Welfare, and the generosity of others. Mike's family had a "Sub for Santa" year when Mike got a football, and it was all he wanted that year. The thoughtfulness of others is so important!
I know I'm still ignorant, and live in my own bubble... but my eyes have been opened a little more. I can say that I've learned, people around me need extra kindness and generosity.
I have always had a large general picture of "those in need" as it may encompass a group of strangers I don't know, or don't have faces for. And while I'll still try to keep others needs in mind... (people in other cities, states, and countries... strangers) this Christmas my heart has been turned to those close by.
I pray that my own children can understand the importance of kindness and charity. At a time of year when we celebrate the birth of our Savior... the ultimate gift given to us, I hope to better value the 'true love of Christ'. As the economy tanks, morals become corrupt, and we are facing confusing times... the things I can find comfort in are the blessings and promises I receive from my faith. I think that regardless of religion or belief... the belief in something greater than ourselves is incredibly powerful. Each of us have the ability to give, and ability to love. It doesn't matter if you call it compassionate service, 'Santa Claus', or karma... the gift of giving is in every human being. It just feels right, and it feels good!
We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. -Winston Churchill
2 comments:
Do you remember that one year when our families took a TON of stuff to a homeless family in a hotel in provo?
I don't remember? Maybe I was gone by then? I remember our "Bethlehem" ward party, sub for Santa, and random things for people in the ward. There were a fair share of crazies in that ward... but it was so great! So many memories!
(PS- remember that perverted Santa at your house? He kept telling dirty jokes... and didn't think we were old enough to understand! I think he worked with your Dad... hahaha!)
Post a Comment