The
Meaningful Season: The Gift of Giving
by
Jamaine Bell
The
holiday season has indeed fully arrived—lists have been
made, parties are in full swing, families are gathering, and
of course, the shopping—some have finished already and
have everything wrapped and sent, others are only now getting
started. And with the season and all its good tidings and cheer,
comes the inevitable hustle, bustle, and yes, even a little
(OK, sometimes a LOT ) of stress.
While
only the stingiest Scrooge doesn’t think of helping
those less fortunate in the community (especially during the
holidays), oftentimes people feel overwhelmed by the demands
of the season. But giving to a needy child or family can help
instill a deeper, truer meaning to traditional festivities
and develop and nurture a less materialistic nature in our
children, our families, and ourselves. Most people agree that
communities with a strong commitment to all members are healthier
and better overall.
So
how do you go about getting your family or organization involved?
What organizations can you send your proceeds to? Who benefits
from your efforts? There are many different levels of giving
readily accessible, from simply buying a toy to drop in the
nearby “Toys for Tots” collection point, to bringing
clothing and blankets to a local family services distribution
office, or adopting a specific child or family and providing
them with food and gifts for the holidays, or volunteering
time at a local soup kitchen. Instead of purchasing another
scarf or cologne set for an extended family member, you can
organize your family to “give” gifts in family
members’ names to a local charity. An office, school,
or other community association may want to organize a food
drive to a local food bank or shelter or “adopt”
a needy child or a set of siblings and give them little holiday
cheer. Whatever your level of involvement, you can be assured
that your donations are very welcome and will make a real
and immediate difference....CONTINUE...
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