Go Forth and Do Good!

I believe that there is a thin line between holding it all together, making ends meet and losing everything and being at the mercy of those who are still holding it all together. I believe that each of us should do whatever is within our means and our power to help another human being, whether it's with a smile and an outstretched hand or a bag of groceries or cup of coffee or mortgage payment or help securing a job or meeting whatever need there is.

This is exactly what my boys and I did on Wednesday. Now, what we did was not earth shattering and did not change anyone's life or general trajectory, but we did share what we had and spread holiday cheer as best we could.

We did spend money on our Do Good projects and we were so glad to be able to do so because the last few years we have not been able to help in these ways, but one certainly need not spend much or any money to reach out to people and do good.

The boys and I started thinking about December 18th, our self-designated "Do Good" day about a month or so ago. It was my goal to combat the greed that sneaks in during this gift-giving, shopping, consuming focused time of year. It was also my hope to show my boys how much joy comes from giving to others.

So, we took a day off from our regular schedules to DO GOOD. We started off by taking sandwiches and cookies to the Basilica of St. Mary's St. Vincent de Paul's Program. This charity is dear to my heart and one of my very favorites to give time and money and goods to. So much good is done here on a daily basis. My heart swelled as my 5 year-old proudly took charge of handing out sandwiches to these hungry people.

My sons took an especial interest in Kevin. We were told Kevin lives under a bridge, carrying all of his worldly possessions in his backpack. He's a tall, slender man with thick, red hair and beard. Kevin has a quiet, peaceful presence and a kind voice and demeanor. Kevin comes to the Basilica often to get a hot cup of coffee, some food and some warmth. When we met him he was perusing the book selections available. We gave him two sandwiches and a Caribou gift card. He will be in our prayers during this very cold winter.

With uplifted spirits and giving hearts, we moved on to Toys R Us. We bought stuffed animals and took them to Children's Hospital in Minneapolis. We specifically designated these soft, cuddly plushies for the Rehab Department where, two years ago, we spent four months of weekly 2.5 hour appointments getting serial casts for my 7 year-old and then another year and a half of physical therapy. We were loved and cared for and supported there; Cheryl and Michelle and Heidi will forever have a special place in our hearts.

Children's of Minneapolis is a exceptional place, designed for kids and families; full of bright and interesting and interactive art and displays in the public areas. My kids enjoyed making music and watching a mesmerizing marble run/sculpture while we were there. And a boy sitting on a couch in the main lobby was handing out Green Lantern stickers; an extra bonus of our Do Good campaign. 

Then, we had a fun idea. We got a big canteen of hot chocolate and cups from Caribou Coffee. We took it over to the boys' school at the time the buses were arriving to pick up the kids. We went bus to bus, offering a warm cup of hot chocolate to each driver. They were surprised and gracious, and the boys had fun doing this. We had some hot chocolate left after all the drivers were provided for, so we headed inside and shared some holiday cheer with the office staff and a few teachers we met along the way.

Next, it was time to head up the police and fire stations. The boys had a thrill talking to the police officers we encountered as we gave presented them with Christmas cookies. Then, we had the pleasure getting to know our fire department a bit better. The firefighter who met us at the door to take our cookie gift was so gracious and kind and interested in the kids, answering ALL of their questions, explaining everything and giving us a private tour of the station, sending us on our way with two very happy, smiling, firefighter-helmet-wearing boys. 

Our last stop was to their pediatrician to drop off cookies and a Caribou gift card; we all love our pediatrician. He ALWAYS takes the time to hear our concerns, discuss various studies, articles and current issues (and you know I like to talk about things like this!) and talk to the boys and earn their respect and trust, not just ours. This stop was suggested by the boys; and I think that's saying something!

In the last few weeks we also donated $100 to charity:water; and gave a pound of Reindeer Blend Caribou Coffee to soldiers in Afghanistan, donated toys to VEAP and shopped for winter gear to give to the boys' school nurse to hand out as needed.

Again, I do not share this to give myself a pat on the back. I don't need that. I share this, as we shared with others yesterday as we went from place to place, because sometimes we all need a little reminder of our blessings, and that we each have something to give, even if it's simply a smile and a kind word.

It was not so very long ago that we tread dangerously close to that fine line. We stood toe to toe with desperation and emptiness. We know what it feels like. And may we never forget that feeling.

So, yesterday we spread holiday cheer. We gave people something to smile about. We filled some empty bellies; shared warmth and love and the spirit of giving without hope of anything in return. And my boys felt contented and happy and full of warmth all because they thought of others and did good things for others. They {at least temporarily} forgot about all the things they want or have on their lists or don't have yet, but their friends do.

That is the best Christmas gift I will receive this year. Wishing each of you a very Merry Christmas, and year full of second chances and blessings, big and small. Over and out….

Anna

 

 

Comments

[The Momarchy Ladies]

What great ideas to teach the younger kids about doing good. I can't wait to pay it forward with the kids soon. Really liked that you took time to visit all of the community members that do so much for everyone all year round. Great opportunity for the kids to see that a little closer!