Giving a Little More this Holiday Season

We have all seen those people ringing bells for the Salvation Army donations in front of super markets and stores at the mall. Most people become annoyed of the little ringing bell and the asking of donations. Some will put a dollar or two into the red buckets not really thinking about the impact it has. However, a woman from Boston donated a little more than expected.

                                                          Red Salvation Army Kettle

In honor of her late husband, this woman donated her diamond engagement ring and gold wedding band. Along with the ring she attached a note that read, "In all seasons, my husband was a giver. I especially remember his joy in giving at Christmas time, especially to those in need. To honor his memory, I donate this ring...there's no price on love or the sentimental value of this ring."

She said her husband always put others ahead of himself and he was a giver. I think it is a beautiful way of admiring her husband's legacy. Donating the wedding ring, a symbol of their love, and a small part of what she has left of her husband is inspiring. She wanted to make sure all those children in need were able to have a Christmas they deserve filled with toys and love.

The Salvation Army has been contacted by someone who is will to by the ring at triple what it is worth and give the ring back to this generous woman. Speaking for myself, I do not think I could ever give up something so close to my heart and give it away. She did such an awe inspiring thing, putting those in need ahead of herself. What I am asking you to do, is to help those less fortunate than you during this holiday season. It does not have to be donating huge amounts of your money, it could be as simple as volunteering at a homeless shelter or even just being nice to a random stranger. Just something that will bring a smile to someone else's face and maybe even your own!

Christmas Spirit!

Thanksgiving is quickly looked over as the meal is finished. People eat as quickly as possible and rush to the stores to get the best deals. Holiday commercials are played over and over from the TV to the radio. Everyone knows what time it is. The holiday season is finally among us!

I myself love the holiday's. It's a time to relax (kind of) and spend time with family and friends. There is a certain feeling that just makes everything happy. The crisp cold air and the snuggly warm feeling of bundling up to stay warm is part of what makes the holiday season. Just walk outside and you see Christmas spirit strung from every roof top. Peep through the windows and see the soft glow of Christmas trees. Even the malls have spirit with huge trees decorated with glitter and glam.

However, some people disagree, they think Christmas is overly corporate and all about money. They think it's excuse just to waste people's time and money. They do not like Christmas music and believe it is over played and boring. They complain that Christmas comes way too early. Customers complain that too much Christmas music plays in stores. However, when it's not the holiday season and stores play "normal" music, will they complain if they do not like a certain song? I don't think so, so why complain about Christmas music playing during the holiday season. When else would they play it? They just do not have the Christmas spirit, and are probably on the naughty list.

In my opinion I love the holiday season, if I could have Christmas last two whole months I would. For now I guess I'll just be in my Christmas spirit at home where no one will complain, can't please everyone. Christmas is not just another holiday about how much money we can spend buying people presents. It's about surrounding yourself with loved ones, relaxing, and having fun. I do not think people spend enough time with their families, and the holiday season is a perfect excuse to bring everyone together.

Most people's season is spent at the mall. While many don't find this the best way to spend it I believe that a gift can show someone how much you care. Buying extremely expensive gifts definitely does not make you a better person. The best gifts are ones picked out with deep consideration and thought. Going to the mall and finding the perfect present for my friends and family gives me a special feeling inside. The look on their faces when they open the present I especially picked for them makes me feel better as a person. It is the time of the year to show our loved ones how much we truly love them and appreciate all that they do.