This time of year is about giving, not receiving. This year, my family and have participated in several programs to allow the underprivileged to enjoy the same type of Christmas that the rest of us experience. We sent care packages to soldiers through Margo, whose son is willingly serving third time in afghanistan. We donated gifts for a 9yo orphan named schylar, who wanted a drew brees jersey like every other kid around here. The big plan was that this morning i would deliver gift cards from local grocery chain to a family that can not afford to eat. They could use this to purchase fixings for the christmas celebration and beyond. What I did know until a priest told my father 2 nights ago, is that this family has no oven or cooktop. Theirs broke, and they cannot afford a replacement. This type of need is foreign to me, like it is to most of us who live contently in our middle-class bubble. I slept poorly that night and woke up yesterday with a plan. In the morning, a friend and I drove over there to deliver the gift cards a day early. I brought a friend to help divert their attention because my actual plan was to scout the layout of their kitchen. Sure as anything, they were ultra-pleased at our gift card donation. Nary once did they mention that all of their cooking is done with small charcoal grill and an old microwave. In the corner we spotted an old freestanding gas range, which was clearly not in working order. Next stop was home depot. I spoke with appliance dept, and they directed me to their collection of clearance items which are marked off for dings and such. I agreed on a gas range that was 30% off and began to check out. The appliance mgr was impressed as to what we were doing with the range, so he asked if he could donate something. I said sure, then he rolled up with a stackable washer/dryer. I proudly accepted. The app mgr, Mel, and I are going to deliver the appliances in my buddy's truck this morning. I can assure you all that this will be marvelous experience, as giving usually is.
