A Season Of Giving

Often times we get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, that it becomes more of a season of frustration than a season of thankfulness. We are so consumed by making sure we get the perfect presents, or the perfect party outfits, or the perfect decorations that we forget what the season is truly about. I know I for one am guilty of this. I decided to take a step back for a few minutes and just reflect on how blessed I truly am. I have a roof over my head, food on my table, family that loves me, and I'm able to further my education. We often times forget that others are not as fortunate as we are.

Many people have heard of adopting an Angel from the Angel tree, and my church has done something similar these past few years. Every Christmas season, my church partners up with the local elementary school to get a list of families in need. These families then provide a list of things they need, and the kids get to make a list of things they want for Christmas. These items are then separated out on cards so that people can help out as much as they can, instead of not getting a card because they cannot afford to get as much as others. On the cards are things listed like toys that the kids want, but also clothing sizes, undergarment sizes, and even basic needs like cleaning supplies and toilet paper. Going through these cards was a very humbling experience, because I was able to see what true need was. It broke my heart to see that families were asking for cleaning supplies for Christmas, and that some children didn't even want toys, but asked for shoes and clothes instead. This year I decided that since I was blessed with a great job that I would provide for a child this year. I started looking through the different cards hanging on the trees, and found two cards that I knew I had to get. An eleven year old girl asked for notebooks and art supplies. Being somewhat creative, this was right up my ally and I wanted to be able to provide a creative outlet for someone else. I got a notebook and canvas from Michael's and paint, paintbrushes, pencils, and a painting set from Wal-Mart. All in all it cost me no more than $20, but I know it will bring so much joy to a sweet little girl's face on Christmas.
I love getting people gifts, and I love seeing the look on their faces when they receive it. But it means so much more when I 'm spending my money to know that a family less fortunate than I will be able to provide for their children on Christmas. I encourage everyone to step back, no matter how "broke" you think you are, and realize how blessed you really are. Then donate, whether it be adopting from the Angel Tree or just putting some change in the Salvation Army bucket at the mall.