Something to think about...
I am extremely lucky to work for a company that is so dedicated to helping others in need. I recently volunteered myself to be in charge of all of our charitable donations. I started by taking care of the family our company adopted for the holiday season. Today, myself and 3 other people from my company took all of the gifts to the family. They are a family of 5, soon to be 6, that recently moved here from California. They are currently living with the father's parents, so there are 7, soon to be 8, living in a very small apartment in Olathe. There was only one Christmas present under the tree when we arrived. After we left, there wasn't even room to walk through their living room. We brought 4 large boxes of presents, a couple of big toys for the 2 year old boy, a bag of donated clothing, and $300 in gift certificates to Wal Mart and Price Chopper. When the mother found out how much the gift certificates were for, her hands started shaking and her jaw dropped. Even though there was a language barrier (the mother only speaks Spanish), I didn't need to hear any words to understand her extreme appreciation for what we did for her family. I know I'm guilty of taking what I have for granted, as are so many people. It's bitter sweet that it takes a moment like that to appreciate the roof over my head, the presents under my tree, and the food in my refrigerator. I am so looking forward to this next year when I get to be the leader of so many other great causes like this one. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season, and please take a minute to share with those around you that don't have as much as you.