It's difficult to imagine that in one of the most affluent counties in
the United States, there are those who still cannot afford to put food on the table. A number of these families have children
who attend our elementary school. As a substitute teacher I have become
familiar with their kids, and its heartbreaking
to see and hear about their hardships. This year, in the true spirit of Thanksgiving, I helped organize a community food drive to assist them during the holidays.
About a month ago I asked the girls to give me their Hanukkah lists. At first they were so excited, grabbing several sheets of paper and sharpening their pencils. However, when it came time to give me their lists, they were virtually blank. Aside from a small handful of items, they couldn't think of anything they wanted.
Our kids live a very comfortable middle-class suburban life. Their wants and needs are generally satisfied. Consequently, when the girls encountered difficulties generating their Hanukkah wish list, we realized it was time for a change.
This year, we're introducing our Season of Giving. The kids are foregoing a couple of nights' Hanukkah gifts and using their own money to purchase presents for community children who are less fortunate. Additionally, during this year's "Black Friday," the three of them will assist Matt in serving a Thanksgiving lunch at a local homeless shelter.
Our intention with all of this is to demonstrate to our children that with privilege comes responsibility. We're hoping to to reinforce a sense of community and instill altruistic values.
Of course, Matt and I are also keeping our fingers crossed that our efforts will help whittle away those major chips on their shoulders ...
About a month ago I asked the girls to give me their Hanukkah lists. At first they were so excited, grabbing several sheets of paper and sharpening their pencils. However, when it came time to give me their lists, they were virtually blank. Aside from a small handful of items, they couldn't think of anything they wanted.
Our kids live a very comfortable middle-class suburban life. Their wants and needs are generally satisfied. Consequently, when the girls encountered difficulties generating their Hanukkah wish list, we realized it was time for a change.
This year, we're introducing our Season of Giving. The kids are foregoing a couple of nights' Hanukkah gifts and using their own money to purchase presents for community children who are less fortunate. Additionally, during this year's "Black Friday," the three of them will assist Matt in serving a Thanksgiving lunch at a local homeless shelter.
Our intention with all of this is to demonstrate to our children that with privilege comes responsibility. We're hoping to to reinforce a sense of community and instill altruistic values.
Of course, Matt and I are also keeping our fingers crossed that our efforts will help whittle away those major chips on their shoulders ...
