It’s getting to be that time of year again and every year it seems to come earlier. Christmas music in stores, ornaments, lights and holiday stuff on shelves, constant reminders that if you’re not careful the holidays will sneak up on you and whiz by before you can sneak a kiss under the mistletoe.
But even as you’re making your list and checking it twice, take a little time to think about ramping up the “nice” this year. Where we all know that the spirit of Christmas is reflected best in our giving — presents to family and friends, baked goodies for neighbors, a little extra something in a special offering at church — there are many ways that your giving can truly make a difference in people’s lives.
Operation Christmas Child delivers shoeboxes full of small gifts to children across the world. The Red Cross will provide supplies, food, blankets for warmth, to the many victims of Hurricane Sandy’s recent destruction in the Northeast. Toys for all the underprivileged girls and boys will be collected at Toys for Tots drop-off points. For some, the food pantry, Eagle’s Wings, will provide the makings for Christmas dinner.
They need your help to spread Christmas joy to those whose lives may not have much joy at all.
The Salvation Army bells will start ringing before we know it, so if you’ve already started a holiday “to do” list, make sure item number one is “give.” Even if you never know who benefits from your donation, if you’re never thanked or recognized, even if it’s one dollar or a thousand, give. Knowing you’ve helped someone, somewhere, in some small way, is the best gift you’ll get this year.