Share the Joy

As many of us spend our day baking, reviewing our menu, decorating the house, and thinking about tomorrow's feast, our hearts will be feeling the joy that only this special season can bring.  I've been asking myself if I fully appreciate that not everyone feels so joyful during the holidays.  Am I aware of others and their needs and feelings?  Do I take the time to consider that not everyone will spend the day baking, singing, listening to music, and anticipating a bountiful day of happiness with family or friends?


Most of us are blessed to have someone with whom we can spend Thanksgiving Day.  We will be feasting, playing games, watching Macy's parade and maybe enjoying a movie.  (My favorites are Miracle on 34th Street and The Polar Express.) All of these traditions just seem to be a part of our culture and a slice of the life we've come to expect.  As we enjoy these pastimes, I want to encourage us to consider those who may not be so blessed, may not have a family with whom they can spend the day, may not have food to fill their stomachs--much less turkey and dressing, pies and salads and stuffing. 

Today, as we enjoy the preparations and traditions, I would like to encourage all of us to also think of one thing we might do on Thanksgiving, or during the holiday weekend, to bless someone who isn't as fortunate;  someone who may not have family close by; may not be able to look forward to a feast with all its trimmings; may be suffering from depression, loneliness, or lack of some other kind.  Then, do that one thing.

Some Ideas:

• invite someone to Thanksgiving dinner
• deliver a plate of turkey and trimmings to a shut in
• deliver a pie or other treat to someone whose influence you appreciate
• visit an elderly neighbor or shut in who is lonely 
• drop off a bottle of sparkling cider to someone who has helped you during the year
• invite someone to share a movie on Thanksgiving evening or play a game with your family
• bring a bag of food to the local food bank or drop one into the collection box at the supermarket
• make a donation to Toys for Tots
• invite a neighbor to take a walk and spend some time letting them know how much you appreciate them.  
• call a friend you haven't spoken to in awhile and express your love
• invite a single or elderly friend to help you decorate your home--or bring a decoration to theirs!

I'm sure you can think of other ideas, as well.  
This is a time of year when we can get so caught up in all the joy and preparations of the holidays that we forget there are those who really need what we have to give. While it is wonderful to celebrate and feel the happiness of the season, I just want to encourage us (yes, me too) to remember Snoopy's advice and share that joy with others.