I would like to ask everyone here a question. Have you really thought about the poor and homeless this holiday season? Yes, I know that most organizations push for help this time of year and it's in front of us constantly. I can hear all the talking points about the subject and I'm not here to list those and argue about them.
Here is what I propose (yes,...I wish I had put this up sooner, but I didn't.) Fortunately, the principle is good 24/7/365. When I see the need of others, not their social history or appearance or anything else, just their needs, it reminds me of how blessed I am. Seriously, I'm blessed. So what do I do when I see others in need? simple--I let my inner voice, that's the code name for my spirit and a term that most anyone can be comfortable with, tell me what to do.
How can I trust the inner voice? Because my true inner voice never tells me anything evil--period.
When my inner voice tells me to give, I listen. So what happens if my gift is used for the wrong purpose-- no problem. Once I do what the inner voice tells me, the responsibility for actions transfers to the "receiver". I will be judged for what I do and they will be judged for what they do. You are therefore free to listen to your inner voice and do what it tells you to. If you adopt this line of thinking you will be free of the excuse that you don't know what individuals will do with your gift. If you have determined that you won't help the need of a stranger, then you are already "free." I have no personal judgement for you.
I am asking that you look in your closets, your pantry, your linens, your piggy bank, etc. Just try it and see if the inner voice speaks to you. This time of year organizations will accept most anything you bring them. They happen to know lots of people that need your "overflow." No "gift" is too small. I think most of us have clothing that we have not worn in a year, two years, or longer. Perhaps you have cans of food that you and your family are not going to eat. Do you have baby clothes and gear that you have just not gotten around to distributing. You get the idea, right? If you don't, then open doors and cabinets in your home and the inner voice will guide you. I promise.
Happy holidays, everyone.
Ted Ladd
East Ridge