Okay, so I have written my cards, handed them out, and even been on a few Christmas light road trips. Today, I went with someone from work to see "Blindside". It has been over two years since I have been to the movies. It is funny how exciting something so simple can be after you are away from it for awhile. And the movie didn't disappoint me either.I won't tell you the story- I promise. I simply can't quit thinking about it, though. At Christmas time either people run for cover and hide from every jingle bell, every merry greeting, and every Christmas light aglow, or they rush out to shop, to decorate, and offer a hand to those around them. It is funny how something that feels so good can be pushed aside after the season is over with. Please, understand now that I am not climbing on top of my soapbox. I am speaking about myself here. It is so easy to know when Christmas comes around to carry a few dollar bills in my purse for the salvation army, to say Merry Christmas and smile at everyone around me. But do I do it the rest of the year? Do I carry an open, giving, caring heart every other day of the year? I'd rather not answer that because I know the answer isn't one I'm proud of.
In these days and times, considering safety, we can't just offer money to strangers who approach us in the parking lot, nor can we give a ride to someone who needs it. It sounds harsh, but it is the reality of things. Often times, when I am trying to think of what I might do, of what help I might offer, I turn to the "big" ideas. I admire those that can so easily step into those roles because I, unfortunately, can not. I question and worry and end up letting time pass by without saying or doing a thing. I am beginning to think more about it however. I honestly believe that I should think of the small things as well, start with what sounds slightly more comfortable first and then see where it takes me. For instance, just because one person is excellent at giving speeches to get a job done doesn't mean that everyone must do the same to complete the same job. God uses each of us in the grand scheme of things. He has given us different gifts and speaks to us at different times in different ways.
I suppose I am going the long way about just to explain this one thought. Please forgive me- it is a bad habit of mine.
In this movie, you see someone take a chance. This woman opens her home to a boy who had no one and nothing. She knew nothing about him and yet she opened her heart to him. Her husband and their family followed her example. Each accepting him as one of their own. Just as we wish the best for anyone we love and do our best to support them, they did the same for this young man. He, in turn, found himself falling in love with them, respecting them, and wanting nothing more than to please them and protect them.
Now, as said above, picking up strangers and opening doors to people we don't know isn't the best idea generally speaking. In this circumstance, however, it was part of God's plan. It was something they did without any logical reasoning behind it, without wanting anything in return simply because they felt that it was the right thing to do. I truly believe God puts desires within our hearts, that He makes us consider things as we may not have at any other time. I believe He will cause us to want and feel something completely new to us at certain times. It is those times when we must decide what we will do. I have felt such feelings, thought such things. When I haven't followed through, I kick myself afterwards wondering why I didn't just do it. When I do follow through however, when I let Him lead me through whatever it may be, I end up feeling this incredible excitement, this love, this true feeling of rightness unlike any other time and I immediately want to do more. To me, it may be something so small, which is usually why I wonder why I can't quit thinking about it. It isn't until I've followed through that I understand. Sometimes, I haven't seen the result, but this settled calmness comes over me and I feel like it truly was the right thing to do. Other time, God has allowed me to see just some of what came from such small acts and I can't question who was really responsible for what just happened- Him.
I was reading a notice on this website Natalie suggested last year http://www.anysoldier.com/ . It pointed out that sending heavy packages to our troops isn't the best idea when they have to move about allot and quickly at that. It also isn't the best idea to send packages at Christmas time. They end up being bombarded with gifts that they can't carry around with them. They suggested sending small, light Christmas decorations in October or November and cards throughout that time, pointing out such things are easier to move about with. It boost their morale, which can mean more to them than just having something to open. This makes a another point here. Giving a gift just to give one, waiting until Christmas to give or Valentines to say I love you isn't always the best idea. Writing a letter to a relative that has made an impact on your life and wanting them to know, or sending a note to someone you may not get along with but you still care about is a great way to make a difference. Giving a Christmas card to Scrooge himself isn't a bad idea at all.
It is just something to think about. To give without wanting payback, to help without a thank you, to listen at all times for those little whispers He puts in our hearts is truly a great thing.
Merry Christmas!
Paige
