Just A Little Kindness ...

Dear Friends,

I think it's pretty clear that today's economic climate is affecting virtually everyone in some way or another. Rich or poor, privileged or challenged, no one is immune from today's global events. It saddens me deeply to see dear friends losing their homes, unable to find work, and on the brink of giving up. It's quite probable that you or people you know and love are in similar situations at the moment. If so, I pray that whatever obstacles you're facing bring strength instead of grief.

Although you may be struggling and facing lean times, now more than ever it is so important to give. You see, we are all in this thing called "life" together. That means that we are truly one big global family. What happens in your life matters to me. Those who are hungry and hurting around the world matter to me. And they should matter to every one of us.

Often we become so consumed with our own problems that we forget about the problems of others. Yet, when we put the needs of others first - even when we're at the lowest point in our own lives - we are blessed and we become blessings to others. Isn't that the spirit of Christmas and the real meaning of why we're all here?

Giving can be as simple as sharing a smile, a hug, or a touch on the shoulder. Sure, giving can be monetary and if that speaks to your heart, then by all means write that check! But just as valuable (if not more so) is your time, your attention, your caring ... your love.

Have you ever stopped to talk to a homeless person -- or do you pass them by without making eye contact? Have you given a home to an abandoned animal? Volunteered at the soup kitchen? Taken time out of your Sunday to sing in your church choir? Spent time with an elderly person in a nursing home? Brought food to a hungry family? Offered a bed to a friend who lost their home?

The thing is, we must all come together to help each other. Our world is changing before our eyes and that means that we must also change. Our focus must be less on "self" and more on "others." Caring for the needs of others is a wonderfully fulfilling endeavor. It will heal your own heart, instill hope, and give you joy. There is much truth to the saying, "'Tis better to give than to receive."

Understand that many people today are afraid, worried, and stressed. Are you? Wouldn't you appreciate being treated with compassion and kindness? We must all make a concerted effort to reach out to others with benevolence, and offer the gifts of patience and forgiveness. Let kindness be the motivator that directs your thoughts, actions, and words.

Give of yourself today. Sow a seed of kindness. You will be so glad you did.

Peace and blessings to you this Christmas season. I hope your holiday was filled with the love of Jesus.

Dr. Debra