The Season of Giving
by Courtney McLain, posted Dec. 7, 2008
Two years ago on a cold December morning a man rode by my family’s farm on his bicycle. This man was living in a tent a few miles north of my house, and his bicycle was his only transportation. It was a few days before Christmas, and we were cozy in our house with warm sweaters on while baking cookies. That same evening when the man rode by, my mother gathered up a basket of cookies and took them to him. He did not speak to my mother, but the smile behind his long, scruffy beard was more than enough thanks. I remember standing at the door of my house and watching as he peddled away with the basket tucked gently in the right side of his tattered coat, trying to keep the snow off of it.
It is that time of year. Stores have their trees, lights and nick-knack decorations out for consumers to buy. While walking through stores it is easy to get caught up in all the excitement of the holidays. However, people so often forget what a holiday spirit should be like—giving.
People often take advantage of the holiday season. Granted, our society has molded it into a time where we eat merrily and spoil each other with gifts. However, that is not what the holidays are all about. Those of us who have what we need should be more than willing to help those who do not.
According to Solutions for America, there are between 500,000 and 600,000 homeless people in the United States alone.
These people can seek some place to sleep in homeless shelters, but that does not fix the problem. They still have little food and a need for clothing. This is the time of year for people to work together and help those who are in need.
In the United States, there are endless possibilities for helping people. It is a matter of motivation. Some choose to give financially, while others choose to give by service. Individuals can also give by making a card, or donating their old clothing to a charity fund.
There are places to give everywhere. Some examples of service people can do in Columbia are to volunteer at the food pantry; big brothers, big sisters; or the walking school bus.
Charities are looking for donations of any kind. Whether the merchandise is old or new, it is needed during the holiday season.
“We need to help people that are less fortunate than us,” said Lori Shiflett, director of the Chillicothe Birthright. “We should use our skills to help better their lives.”
Every act of kindness is appreciated, no matter how great or small. Giving is a beautiful thing because it is not just rewarding to the receiver, but also to the giver. During the holidays people should keep their eyes and hearts open, because no one ever knows when they themselves will be in need. .
