Betty and I went to the mall this afternoon to pick an envelope from the Christmas Tree for a gift for an underprivileged child.  We do this every year.

This year was different for me.  Normally I pick out an envelope, open it, and there is sex and age of the child and pretty specific of what he or she wants.  This one was from a 6-year-old girl who wanted, "Something I can hug."

That choked me up.  Almost teared me up.  I can hardly imagine a 6-year-old little girl who needs something to hug.  I thought of my two great granddaughters and great grandson and the grand Christmas they will be celebrating.  We sent them each a subscription to a children's monthly activity book and I sent them the old 'Find Waldo' books I had in our bookcase.  My granddaughter and her husband will make it very special for them.

I went across the street to Walmart and found the biggest stuffed animal I could find and brought it back and gave it and the envelope to the lady who wraps the gift and makes sure that little girl will get 'something to hug'.

We are fortunate that we have enough for a modestly comfortable retirement and a bit extra to help others.

When I was a Marine I volunteered every year for their Toys for Tots program.  All I can do anymore is send them a check.  I'm fortunate enough to be able to do that.

Remember, Christmas is for kids.  We grownups take advantage of it and exchange gifts amongst ourselves, but really, the eyes that sparkle and the belief in Santa Clause is for the children.  We should make it as joyous as we can for them.  Even if we don't know them.

Noel

That is a tear jerker.  I donate to the St Mary's food bank. Wish I could do more.

For us it is the season to remember to be kind and courteous to each other and generally lighten up. I take great joy in seeking out grocery shoppers that appear to be needy. and paying for their groceries. It's the least I can do.

 

Bill W