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There is an air of
generosity this time of year. It always seems the holidays bring out
the bighearted side in many people. It is the compassion in people’s
hearts that propel them to get involved and help those less fortunate.
Here in Rio Rancho we have many ways in which people can help those
less fortunate. Many of us will be hosting our extended families over
the holiday putting on a banquet of delicious foods. But there are
some people in Rio Rancho who won’t be hosting a full house this
coming holiday. There are homebound elderly, convalescing, or disabled
persons in our community who rely on an organization called Meals on
Wheels to nourish their bodies and spirits by providing hot, home
delivered meals and social contact. Meals on Wheels is an almost
entirely volunteer run organization which prepares regular and special
medical diet meals in its own kitchen. Make this Thanksgiving special
for someone who may be spending it alone. Contact Meals on Wheels at
(505) 823-8060 to learn what volunteer positions are available this
holiday season. Bring a smile to a face just by showing up at their
door.
There are many good reasons to show your compassion and kindness
toward others. A few may be right under your feet. Remember, children
are watching you and doing as you do, not as you say. Which reminds me
of that old verse I have tacked up on my wall in my office that I
think is appropriate to share during this time of giving. It is
written from a child’s perspective on observing the actions of a
parent. Let’s pass on our compassion for others by modeling the
behavior we wish to instill in our children.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on
the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you feed a stray cat, and I
learned that it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake for
me and I learned that the little things can be the special things in
life.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I heard you say a prayer, and I
knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in
God.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it
to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take
care of each other.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and
money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have
something should give to those who don't.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house
and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are
given.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your
responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I
would have to be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and
I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you care and I wanted to
be everything that I could be.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons
that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say,
"Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking."
Little eyes see a lot. Each of us parents, grandparents, aunts,
uncles, teachers and friends influence the life of a child. How will
you touch the life of someone this season of giving? Reach out and
prove to yourself you really do have more time, compassion and
strength to give others.
Quote of the Week: “It is not length of life, but depth of life”.-
Ralph Waldo Emerson
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