We've all heard it this year. America spends multiple gazillion dollars on Christmas; in contrast, the world could be fully vaccinated with a small portion of that sum. Although Americans plan to spend less on the holidays this year than in the past several years, it's not just about holding back a few additional dollars; it's about making the world a little better place for others as well. It's about generosity and humility and a little perspective.
After that conversation start yesterday, the kids and I decided to put together a list of ways we can help others enjoy their holiday season and choose as a family which ones we will join with this year. I'm starting our list, but I would love to have input. What are other organizations or ideas for giving that you think are great?
- Sponsor a child through Compassion International, Samaritan's Purse, or another reputable child sponsor organization.
- Buy a malaria resistant mosquito net for an African family (this is what we gave our dads for Father's Day - to help a few children who may not have fathers).
- Provide a micro loan in order for someone in a developing country to begin a business that will support their family.
- Buy a goat, chicken, alpaca, pig, or some other cute animal that will help support a family.
- Take food to our local food bank.
- Choose a family we know personally and sneakily drop off gifts & food (I read of one family who blesses a family every year with an anonymous twelve days of Christmas countdown of decorations, food, and small gifts).
- Give needed clothes or toys to a foster child.
- Make homemade Christmas decorations for elderly people in a near-by retirement home.
Wishing a fabulous holiday season for ALL of us.
