It is the Season of Christmas, and there sometimes we do not realize how lucky we are. When you are in the stores you should expect everyone to realize this and be happy, but it is often the most horrible time of the year to be in retail.
People are in a rush, and do not have patience to wait, they feel it is the cashiers fault that they are running behind, or that they had to wait in line. Last Year, I heard one lady at a cashier at Wal-mart, because they were not going to be open on Christmas Day, so she could return the gifts she gets from her family.
I worked Christmas Day at Blockbuster (yes back in the day), and we were about the only ones open in town, and people would come in so made because they didn’t get what they wanted, and they couldn’t go get it. If you are lucky to have off Christmas day, be thankful and take the time to say “Thank you” to those who have to work. It doesn’t cost you a thing and could make their day.
The other day I was in line at the Dollar Tree, and this lady was so mean and rude to the cashier, because the cashier was new, and was struggling with the long line of people waiting. When it was my turn, I asked her how she was doing, and to not worry about it, and take a deep breath. When I left she said “Merry Christmas” and “Thank you” with a smile. That made my day as well.
On FaceBook, I see people begging for free gifts for their children, or to help with their car payment or rent. One lady is asking for $2000 on a Go fund me campaign. I understand that people struggle, I have been there, but I could never ask strangers to take care of my bills. One year we were struggling to pay our house payment and feed the children. Christmas gifts were not in the picture. We talked with the older children, and while they were not happy they understood. Food and a roof over our head was more important that that new XBox or PS4 game.
It seems like we don’t teach our children that giving a gift is more rewarding than getting a gift. Many children expect you to spend money that you do not have on toys and electronics that they will probably only use for a short time.
The children in the Compassion Centers are so lucky that they are able to get a small gift for Christmas. They do not care if it the newest and the best, but sometimes it is just a shirt or a shirt/pants. It is amazing how excited they can be for these small gifts.
When we went to one of the centers, and were handing out pencils, just plain #2 pencils, the kids were so happy and excited to get one. Why can’t we be more like these children, who are so happy and thankful for the simplest of gifts.
When I send a birthday gift to my Compassion children, they buy shirts, pants, shoes, socks, or bath items. Maybe even a gift for their younger siblings. They are happy to get these items, and do not even think about getting a toy or video game.
You see people mad that they got a gift, because it wasn’t the one they wanted, or did not cost as much as they felt they should get. Give them $25 they want $50, give them $50 they want $100. They are never satisfied, they feel that they are entitled to receive the money, not that it is a “gift.”
Christ is the Reason for the Season, and we should be celebrating his birth and not get so focused on what “I get”, but on the fact that “we got” the best gift there ever has been. Jesus Christ.
This is a challenge to everyone, take the time to not only say “Merry Christmas,” but also to show Christ’s love through your actions. Maybe even stop by Compassion.org and make a child’s year, by sponsoring them. The monthly cost is probably less than that shirt you are buying your child, that they will hate.
Thank you for listening to my rant…. Merry Christmas and Have a wonderful day!
#31dayblogchallenge2018
Lisa's Quilting Passion 