Give A Little---Get A Lot!

Based on a true story......Her husband walked out on her, leaving her a single mom with two boys, Ben (11) and Thomas (3). With no support from the dad, she struggles to pay the bills. That's just the beginning for this life weary mom. Thomas has been "acting out" in school and she's had to attend meetings with the pre school teachers. The temperatures outside at night have been in the teens and she has no heat in her home. With a myriad of her own illnesses to deal with, she often forgoes her needed medication to pay bills and provide for her two boys.

She feels like throwing in the towel, but she can't, she won't. Too much is on the line. She buys one present for each son every Christmas, but always sets aside a small amount for the boys to use to buy a present for someone else who is in need. She wonders if she's doing the right thing, if she's making a difference in these boy's lives. She explained to Ben that Christmas might be slim this year. Ben turns to her and with a bright smile and understanding eyes he says, " That's okay mom, Christmas is about the family and we'll be together and that's what matters." She smiles and turns her head to conceal the tears flowing down her cheeks. Thank you God, thank you for that...I needed that so badly she whispers in prayer as she dries her face and readies her smile.

We all have struggles. When our health fails, we turn inward and focus on ourselves too much. When we focus on helping others, we suddenly forget about ourselves. Look around this week and I guarantee there is someone that is struggling that you know. Call them, drop them a gift card in the mail, have a gift delivered to their house anonymously, take them to lunch, just do something. Be a servant and be a friend....it's amazing what you get when you give all you can!