Its occured to me, that often this time of year, we, as individuals and families are wrapped up in things like football games, playoff hopes, hanging plastic on our windows, Christmas shopping and any plethora of Things in our daily grind. Most of them, are of little significance in the big picture.
I'm not exactly sure why I'm compelled to make this post, but I am.
This winter, as the temperature drops below zero outside my home, and as I celebrate a win over the hated Donkeys, some dose of reality is sinking in that needs to be said.
This Christmas season, there are alot of things we can do, as individuals just because they are "the right thing" to do.
This year I encourage those of you who can to find someone they can help. There are alot of kids without proper coats, shoes and clothes in poor condition. I wish I could direct you to specific places, but can't right now. If you have the time, the finances and the same kick in the craw that I do, please contact your local school, or a charity program, or a food bank, and see what you can do to help get a kid in a proper pair of shoes, a warm enough coat, and maybe some toys for Christmas.
I know that many churches, school nurses/administrators, as well as local govt programs will be able to give lists "boy, age 12, size 9 shoe, likes football" type lists.
For those without the financial availability to help someone in that capacity....there are Still alot of things you can do. Scoop the snow off the walk for that old widow across the street, take the son of a deployed, wounded or KIA soldier to the Y to play some ball...do something.
Another option, I'm going to quote from the Michael Yon website, because I think its very true, and something you, and your children can do for less than $.50. Write a letter, have your kid draw a picture...whatever. I know, that during the holidays, many of our deployed men and women are having a tough time.
"More than 150,000 troops are at war in Iraq, Afghanistan and stationed other places by land and sea. It's time to remember them, and at least send a letter. Care packages are great, but simple letters can be powerful. The Department of Defense has sorted through endless websites and charities, and does an excellent job organizing links to sites that allow people to help the troops. With a single click, people can donate books to troops, or computers, or frequent flier miles, or they can help wounded veterans or grieving families, or Iraqi children. There are so many options.
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/ "
As an individual, we can all make someone's holiday brighter with very little effort. As a Group of Chief fans, think of the combined good we can do, but each doing one small gesture, that is "the right thing".
