At such a "gimme, gimme, I want, I want" time, how can we get our kids to think of others?
'Tis the season for satisfying all of our cravings and desires — or so it seems. Everywhere we look, we're bombarded with bold advertising, and endless promises prodding us to buy the best, most unique gift yet.
It seems that each year, advertising for the holiday season is beginning earlier. We can barely enjoy our Thanksgiving dinner without the subliminal messages of BUY! BUY! BUY! ringing in our ears.
Meanwhile, our kids are exposed to the very best advertising techniques when they watch their favorite TV shows. Children know what they want, where it can be bought, and even through which website it can be ordered.
At such a "Gimme, gimme, I want, I want" time, how can we get our kids to think of others and be more giving? One way is to help them become more aware of those less fortunate around us.
This is possible from preschool age on up and there are many opportunities in our own communities. There are soup kitchens where help or donations of food or money are welcome. Kids can help decorate holiday cookies to be given to the homeless through a local soup kitchen. There are town organizations in need of gifts or money for the less fortunate.
Many places of worship put together care packages for needy families. By contacting local churches, temples, town halls or social service agencies we can find out exactly what's needed. Getting the family involved is a great thing. Kids can even put aside part of their allowance so they can feel they really contributed.
Perhaps you know of a struggling single parent who would benefit from some unsolicited, anonymous gifts to brighten the holiday season. A lonely senior citizen would cherish a visit from children at this time of year. Children have a magical way of bringing smiles and warmth to people's hearts. Some Christmas cookies, a handmade card, a Christmas carol, and some good company may be just the remedy to bring some much needed joy.
Your family can start your own tradition and visit a local nursing home, hospital or home for the mentally or physically challenged. Find out who could really use a visit, someone who may not have local relatives or friends. The little bit that we give of ourselves somehow by the grace of God, becomes an even larger gift given back to us.
It's important to keep in mind that the holiday season is not always a happy time for everyone. Some may be grieving the loss of a loved one, while others may be experiencing depression or enduring a difficult situation. A warm shoulder and some time set aside just for them is a priceless gift. Time is usually a more difficult gift to part with during our hustle and bustling. But, it is a gift that will be appreciated, probably more than we will ever know.
There are endless opportunities to reach out to others at this time of year. Just start with a prayer and think with your heart and you can't go wrong.
