I was in high school. It was Christmas time. I already mentioned my father’s issues with Christmas which added stress to the holidays. Then you added financial stress. I don’t remember the specifics. We never starved or never had food. My parents always provided the basics.
What I do remember is this family at our school had taken my mom out and bought bags of groceries. We weren’t aware of this till they walked in carrying the bags. Then they left gifts… presents for each of us.
I have never forgotten that Christmas. I have no recollection of what I got from them… but have remembered this act of kindness every year. They did not have to bother… they were likely struggling to make ends meet too. They reached out.
There are families in our own community that are going to have a Christmas that will not be very happy. It is so great to hear of the generosity of people with toy drives… food drives etc.
This year we will try and make someone else’s Christmas better. I know there are always questions that we can ask… if there is no money… how come the parents are…. but really the bottom line is it is about the kids. All around us are trees and sleighs with children’s names… with their wish list. Some just ask for clothes. One gift… changes one child’s christmas!
I love Christmas!!! 8 more sleeps!
Merry Christmas to you !!!