President-elect Obama, his wife, and daughters, helped to pass out food at a South Side Chicago church. AP writer, Sara Kugler in this article, "reported that Obama told reporters that he wants 'the girls to learn the importance of how fortunate they are, and to make sure they're giving back.' The soon-to-be first lady said the Obamas wanted to give their children an understanding of what giving and Thanksgiving is all about.' "
The holidays are a good time for parents to model empathy by having their children volunteer. What we teach children is also something that is useful to reinforce in ourselves as well. We often get absorbed by our own problems and challenges. By being of service to others, we expand our understanding of the world and this helps us become less isolated and builds more of a shared experience of community.
For some ideas of how you can help in your community, go to :
www.givespot.com/ask/holiday.htm
volunteer.united-e-way.org/uwgs/org/opp/medallions/
Or contact your local church, synagogue, nursing home, hospital or volunteer agency in your area. There is no end to need, and the act of giving can lift the spirits and provide hope; which can be the best gift of all.
