Giving

December 17, 2012

It's that time of year again, "The Giving Season."
 
We can get really wrapped up trying to find that perfect gift for the person who has everything and doesn't really need anything.
 
I was struck by a statement I overheard from a Salvation Army bell ringer. She said, "It's okay if you can just give even a penny, it will add up to help someone who needs it"
 
That got me to thinking about the people in my own life who need help. What am I personally doing? What are you doing?
 
Try dropping a few coins in those red buckets this season. Don't have any extra money? You can donate your time. Many organizations need volunteers. REAP (Raytown Emergency Assistance Program) is always on the lookout for help. You can give the gift of your time to a lonely person by spending an afternoon with them. When it comes to buying gifts for children, remember, spending time with children is more important than spending money on children.
 
We can all voice platitudes, but when you put your money where your mouth is, your heart will be warmer. So, just think about it during this season of giving. There are people going without enough food, heat, water, or electricity.
 
Follow your heart.

Julie C.
Raytown Branch