Giving for a Cause

With the holiday season coming into full swing, children seem to keep adding just one more item before sending off last minute letters to good ol' Saint Nick. Mothers are worriedly rummaging through stores with the long wish lists in hand and everyone seems to have one task in mind – shopping. What really should come to mind on this holiday season is family, warm fires, bright lights, Christmas cookies and togetherness.

It seems to be that as time has progressed, the entire thought of holiday cheer and the true essence of each celebratory day, has been twisted and blown out of proportion. Be it giving or receiving, most recent generations only focus on the gift element of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, etc.

A reality check and a bit of a historical background review may be the ticket to an amazing surprise. There are so many people around the world whose main worry is not giving or receiving gifts, while in the reality, some people do not have a warm meal or even somewhere to sleep this season. While the holidays should not be the only time to help those less fortunate, it does become a time when many need to reach out and help.

There are many little ways to make a big difference. Simply by taking an hour or so to just go through your cabinets and closets, and put together a bag of food and clothing to donate would help. It really is as simple as it sounds, and the difference it will make could make one person’s life that much easier.

For the children who do not dream of receiving even one single present on Christmas morning, there are organizations like Toys for Tots where you can buy a simple toy in any price range and donate it to the labeled boxes at stores like CVS. Having just one toy play with and call their own could really make a child’s whole outlook different on the holiday.

When you are comfortable financially and stable, your next step could be to help someone else along in the same direction. Whether you donate your belongings, food, money or time, any donation is a great donation this holiday season, and all year round, as well.

Written by: Tenniea Martin