It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle this time of year, isn’t it?
Whether it’s trying to get the house cleaned and decorated for company, developing an elaborate holiday dinner menu, or searching for the perfect gifts for friends and family, there always seems to be something that needs to be done. If you’re like me, you may even enjoy all of the hustle and bustle. I kind of love running last minute errands on cold nights when I can see my breath and almost smell the snow in the air.
But, as I grasp my steaming latte while I shop in the cold or settle in to my cozy house, I find that my mind often drifts off to those who are less fortunate than I have been. My husband and I are very blessed and fortunate to live the way we do. Though we do our best to give back throughout the whole year, it really tugs on my heart a bit mroe around the holidays.
Hunger is one of the issues that is particularly close to my heart. As someone who loves to cook, bake, and eat, it is hard for me to comprehend what it must be like to be truly hungry – to not be able to afford to put food on the table for my family. As I settle in to a Thanksgiving dinner with more than enough food to go around, I know that there are many who may not even have a decent meal on Thanksgiving day.
I’m not trying to dampen your spirits or ruin your Thanksgiving. Quite the contrary. Instead, let’s take this opportunity to express our gratitude by giving back. What could be a better way to brighten our own Thanksgiving celebrations by taking a moment to share what we’ve been blessed with to brighten the day for someone less fortunate.
I sometimes feel that the fight against hunger can be so huge that my small efforts hardly make a difference. I was starting to feel that way this year when I got an email from Jennie from In Jennie’s Kitchen asking if I would like to participate in writing a post this Thanksgiving about hunger. She had the right idea… If we all do a little bit, we can make a huge difference.
Please join us in our fight against hunger and help to fill an empty plate for those less fortunate this Thanksgiving.
Wonderful post very heartfelt. I’m sure we have things that most don’t, internet, tv, and the necessities like clothing, food and a home. Last night we were going through our mail and my husband saw the Crossroads of RI which is a local homeless shelter that provides clothing, housing, food to local homeless men, woman and children. I wanted to do something local since Rhode Island has been in the top five states of unemployment. So I donated some money I wish it could’ve been more, but every little bit helps. I hope you and yours enjoy your Thanksgiving.
Jen, I really hope we see the day when the people at Share Our Strength work part-time. I know you do, too.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanks so much reminding us of this important issue.
Wonderful post, Jen. If we all do small things, maybe we can make a difference as a whole. I hope your Thanksgiving is wonderful tomorrow, filled with people you care about.
Jen, I often feel the same, as if I could and should be doing more. But, as you say, these little gestures add up to big results. Thanks for sharing and caring. Happy Thanksgiving!