The Best Christmas Yet!

What would have to happen to make this the best Christmas yet for:

• A hungry child in Africa
• Someone who just lost a job
• An adolescent who has run away from home
• A prisoner on death row
• Someone who is homeless
• The family that is in the middle of an ugly divorce
• A person grieving the recent loss of a partner
• An addict who desires freedom
• A friendless soul who feels alone
• A person who suffers from a debilitating disease
• Someone who is contemplating suicide
• A soldier on the battlefield
• The family that just declared bankruptcy
• A senior recognizing s/he has symptoms of Alzheimer's
• Parents with a child in palliative care
• A business on the verge of closing
• Someone in a violent relationship
• A person with a horrible secret

What could you do to help them have a better holiday? Perhaps you could begin by identifying someone who is experiencing a problem. Then take some time to think seriously about what would make their life a little better. Asking the person about their needs or the needs of their family would be helpful in your planning.

If the needs are greater than your budget, you might want to ask friends or family to be part of the project. It is amazing how working together can actually be an energized and positive experience for everyone involved.

Soon you will be able to prove to yourself the old expression "It is better to give than receive". I hope each of you has the best Christmas yet - no matter what your circumstances might be!