OVERCOMING HOLIDAY GREED
When you make out your Christmas or holiday gift list, check it twice. In the midst of the great greed era, it is often overlooked as to what motivated this season of giving. It might help to remember the Three Magi traveling huge distances to bring gifts to a humble child in the most meager of settings. There is a star over your head this season, and it is there to have you think of gifts for those who are without many gifts. Here are some suggestions that cost little or no money...
A Muslim family. As people generalize and pass judgment on all Muslims, extend a hand of kindness. Overcoming this sort of prejudice and bigotry is needed. Rise above all that, and show compassion.
Do you know a family with a physically or mentally challenged child? Both the child and the family can use your special expressions of kindness. Whether or not it is a physical gift, give from your heart.
While strides have been made in understanding gay and trans-genered people in the U.S., this country is still loaded with misunderstandings and hate-filled thoughts toward them. Show your tolerance and kindness.
Many elderly people go through the pains of age-related problems (including loneliness). Be a friend to one in need of expressions of understanding, help, and kindness. Pick someone out and let your light shine.
Some single-parent households could use help. Show your compassion and generosity. Don't assume someone else or some agency is helping them; do something yourself.
Each family with someone serving in the military could use an extended hand of kindness and expressions of understanding. Whatever their particular needs may be, show your compassion.
Being alone during these holidays can be extremely difficult. Don't let someone you know suffer the depression and sorrow of being alone. You know what to do.
Volunteer at a shelter, meal provider, or social service organization. They need your help.
The list and possibilities goes on and on. Pick one out and show your kindness, tolerance, love, compassion in a specific way. Use the inner gifts you possess and give of yourself. More possibilities...
The poor, someone who has wronged you in the past, the unemployed, homeless, people who have lost their home, prisoners, addicts, people of color, people struggling with the language, blind, deaf, developmentally disabled, vets struggling with post-service afflictions [mental and physical], or anyone you know or know of...here or far away. The ball is in your court. Don't parade around trying to show everybody how "pure" you are, extend yourself to make someone else carry a lighter burden. Express your humiity by quietly giving of your gifts, your time, your heart.
