I love it when Ralphie gets his Red Rider B.B. gun, or the town takes up a collection in "It's a Wonderful life." I rejoice is Ebeneezer Scrooges repentance and restoration and tear up when the Grinch's heart grows three sizes. During the holidays I love listening to sappy Christmas songs, watching movies of hope, joy and transformation, but what am I doing to demostrate that spirit of giving, good will and change.
I have done what a lot of us do. I bought a few presents for others (even families I know are in need). I left a little bit bigger tip than usually for my serve at Longhorn, or let someone go past me in line at Sam's club - where I tend to be selfish is in my time.
Last week we were out making a few deliveries and everywhere we stopped people wanted to talk. We were invited in, asked to stay and visit and all I could think about was the next stop on our journey. There are a lot of people alone this Christmas. Widows, single-parents, or folks that are just hurting. Everyone thinks that something should be done. Everyone talks about making a difference, but few of us invest our time in the lives of others.
Of all the sappy Christmas movies the one I feel most connected to is Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer. I really don't care much for the movie, but understand what is going on at the "island of misfit toys." They want to experience Christmas like everyone else. They want to wake up under someone's Christmas tree. They want to be loved, adored, appreciated and wanted by someone - anyone.
So for just one day - put away your checkbook. Sure there are lots of folks in financial need, but give a little of your time. Have someone over during the holidays that no else is going to invite. Take a widow(er) out for coffee. Have a single-mom over for New Year's Eve. Take a family who have lost their job to Sunday lunch. It's time to quit talking and make a difference.
