Thanks & Giving
For this writer, the true spirit of Thanksgiving lies not in retelling Pilgrim history, but in communal giving.
During this time of year, people are busy with purchasing, planning, and parties. But imagine joyfully relinquishing that practice and instead focusing on thanks and giving. This is evident in the heartwarming tradition of meal sharing among organizations, neighborhoods, and churches.
The Annie's Way event in Round Rock, Texas, was born from a woman's warm heart and has grown to feed thousands of local people. The event is not just a way to express love toward strangers but also a full-hearted opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the marginalized. Hundreds of volunteers sign up to cook meals, serve, decorate, and even deliver food to homebound families on Thanksgiving Day.
In addition, helping the community while providing Christmas gifts requires both words and deeds. The Just Because Ministries of Hope is in a mid-city community that resembles the early Christian way of Saint Nicholas. With an aim on children's Christmas stockings, anyone can emulate Saint Nicholas' care for children who have less than we do.
Both opportunities, Annie's Way and Just Because, require charity that unites us. Their actions reflect the poignant words of Jesus Christ in Matthew's Gospel: "Just as you did it to one of the least of these, …you did it to me" (25:4). Unity makes these acts of charity a powerful experience, inspiring us all.
This year, I've made a personal decision to roll up my sleeves, with much inspiration and join hundreds of volunteers to serve others wholeheartedly.
As we approach this Thanksgiving, I urge you to reconcile with others, regardless of issue, race, creed, or social status, and act charitably in your neighborhoods and the world. And join me at Annie's Way.
