“And in our world of plenty, we can spread a smile of joy. Throw your arms around the world at Christmas time…well, tonight thank God it’s them instead of you.” ~Do They Know It’s Christmas?/Band Aid
This song always makes me choke up.
Although the 1984 song “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” was aimed at reminding us about world hunger, there are people right under our noses who have no food for the Holidays and no gifts to open on Christmas Day. We read story after story in the newspaper about families unemployed, single moms struggling, people unable to work because of serious illness – all facing a dismal Holiday season.
There is no “ho” in many Holidays this year.
But there is a silver lining. There are people out there who care and bend over backwards to help others. Radio stations give away Christmas money to deserving families, cancer organizations bring joy to people affected by illness, domestic violence organization makes sure their clients’ children have gifts to open, and community organizations pack and bring Holiday food baskets to those without.
These people put some “ho” back into holidays.
So to these unsung heroes I say “thank you!” Few things are harder on children than being poor…and not having anything for Christmas makes you feel poorer than poor. I was once a mom-in-need, and a local organization held a Christmas party for all of us single moms. They fed us, gave us gifts, and made our children feel important. The amazement and gratitude I saw in my childrens’ eyes over the kindness of strangers is something I will never forget.
That’s what makes these individuals so special. They selflessly give of themselves, their time and their money to spread a little Christmas joy unto others…making sure no child goes without at least a little something.
That, after all, is what the season is about. Helping others – and giving from the heart.
So if you have a moment, find a way to help.
Bring a little gift.
Help someone pick up their tree.
Grab a few groceries.
Buy someone a coffee.
People out there need you….and when you help – even just a little – they’ll know it’s Christmas.
~Helen
Remember this?
Do They Know It’s Christmas
Video – 1984
Photo: ©Flickr: jayneandd
