Christmas and Goats
When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things—not the great occasions—give off the greatest glow of happiness. Bob Hope
As a child, my Christmas gifts were pretty standard: an orange, a pair of warm pajamas, and marzipan candy that looked like tiny fruit. I was happy with that. However, this year I want a goat. Well, okay, two goats — one male, one female.
Today, commercial Christmas is running amok. We spend even Christmas Eve racing from one music-blasting store to another, toting home expensive easily forgot games, electronic something, and diamond thingies for mother that pretty much look alike. I’m a mom and I say: Please, spare me.
On the other hand, there are places to plunk down Christmas dollars that honor our loved ones AND change others’ lives. Like a goat which would cost $120.00 instead of the $1,000 for a bling hard to detect from the $50 version. My goats, bought through an organization that works with third world villages, would give milk to a family, help support an entire village – and make more goats.
My loved ones could also check out UNICEF’s holiday online catalog and plunk down just $40.00 to give polio immunization shots to 40 children. Or $20.00 to buy ten blankets to keep babies warm. Or they could buy a collapsible tent for a temporary school or health unit for the cost of a pricey camcorder.
I’d also be happy to get a flock of ducks sent in my name. Or $210.00 sent to The SmileTrain.org which teaches doctors how to repair hare lips and cleft palates of third world impoverished children. That $210.00 pays for one operation. Without that repair, the youngster is on a sure path to a hopeless life. If any. Anyway, I’ve been thinking and I plan to write Santa a note and set him straight.
Dear Santa, I don’t want much this year. I just want a gift that will change a life.
Meditation for the Day
Christmas Gift Suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity.
To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.” Oren Arnold
Action for the Day
Today, and every day, I will give thanks for what enhances my life and consider what I may give to enhance others’ lives. My gifts will be the height of selfishness; they will light up my life forever.
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