by Judy
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."
Some say the above quote is Plato's. Others attribute it to Scottish author, Ian Maclaren. To me, it doesn't matter whether it's from a Greek author and philosopher, or a Scottish author, it has long been one of my very favorite quotes, and one I try to remember as I go through my busy days.
All of the posts this week from
Terri,
Kelly and
Susan have spoken about kindness and of 'being the light', and my post today continues on that theme.
I consider myself a very empathetic person. I can put myself in someone else's shoes in a heart beat, and can be jumping for joy with them over happy news, or sobbing uncontrollably with them, or for them, over sad news.
The holiday season is a time that I always find myself really noticing those around me. The little girl with the tattered coat. The man with the gaping hole in the side of his shoe. The woman with the worried look on her face as she buys her groceries. I become acutely aware that this is not an enjoyable time for many people, and I say a silent prayer that they may find the strength to get through this time and find peace and happiness in the new year.
I know that it is impossible to help each and every person who needs it, but I remind myself that small gestures can make a big difference. Let's 'be the light' for those who need it the most this time of year. I know that your kind hearts volunteer and donate to many different charities throughout the year, as do I, but if you're struggling to find places in your community where you can help out, or if you'd just like to do more this holiday season, I've found some great charities that really make a difference that I'd like to share with you.
- The Christmas Tree Project, which collects and donates Christmas trees, decorations and gifts. You can find them at thechristmastreeproject.org
- The Every Cork Counts Campaign. Gallo Family Vineyards, gives $5 for each cork they receive to Meals on Wheels Association of America. You can find them at gallofamily.com/every-cork-counts
- Share Your Soles accepts all kinds of gently worn, or new shoes and warm boots. Visit them at shareyoursoles.org
- Scarves with a Purpose collects your handmade scarves and mails them to low-income schools, homeless shelters, and other groups. They can be found at scarveswithapurpose.com
- One Warm Coat works to help the 15% of Americans who can't afford a warm coat. Visit them at onewarmcoat.org
Wishes to all of you for a happy holiday season, and may your days be merry and bright!
