Various employment assignments and volunteer opportunities take me to many locations in Peoria and surrounding areas. Such experiences are often poignant reminders of the challenging circumstances many people confront daily. On a blustery cold morning I drive by Sophia’s Kitchen on Richard Pryor Place in Peoria. Folks are lined up waiting to receive a hot cup of coffee and perhaps hearty soup and other food available that day. Reasons vary as to why adults, some with children, some seniors, others alone, are seeking nourishment and encouragement from someone else’s kitchen. I silently promise to be more grateful and generous.
In a commercialized society vastly different from soup kitchens is the annual barrage of holiday advertisements. December is for list making, gift giving, cookie baking, party throwing, tree trimming, and much more, leaving us wondering if we’re missing the essence of the season. Festivities can be wonderful and can add to life’s pleasures if they genuinely reflect our choices. But stress and dissatisfaction are opposite the “Have yourself a merry little Christmas” song. Holidays shouldn’t suggest survival, but rather unique ways of celebrating the joy and good that Christmas invites. Helping those unable to reciprocate can be a profound lesson in sharing.
Some years ago I was involved in buying Christmas gifts for residents at an independent living facility. The recipients were primarily seniors with modest incomes. Their life stories were woven with details of not having quite enough. Some learned to settle for doing without, some kept trying to improve, while others gave up much too early in life. But as health declines and years add up, reasons for limited options aren’t so important. One woman requested in shaky handwriting a particular fragrance. Her request didn’t exactly match my allotted budget, but the timing of a great sale made it possible to buy a very small bottle of her favorite cologne. In her timid manner, she later told me how much she enjoyed her gift. I’ll always remember her, and the honor I felt in being able to make one wish come true.
Our community has many agencies, churches, and civic organizations involved in helping others. Often when giving our time and resources we discover a satisfaction missing from the Mall or online shopping. It’s easy to dismiss the opportunities to serve because a busy schedule or family obligations limit our time, but camaraderie among volunteers is very uplifting. Such interactions with others are good for the mind and soul. Medical reports emphasize we are social beings whose health and happiness often increase as we become involved with friends pursuing a common benevolent goal. A generous spirit becomes its own reward.
Celebrating the holidays isn’t a test of our creativity or endurance. It’s a time to share hospitality, create memories, and live as best we can the principles that guide our lives. Dec. 25th’s origin or significance need not cause division.
Agreement may not be possible, but sharing joy, good will, and kindness is always an option regardless of personal convictions.
Observe children’s delight as they enjoy twinkling lights and decorated sugar cookies. Extend a helping hand to those for whom warm clothing brings comfort. Believe firmly in the message of peace on Earth, and work to create peace that can help heal and gladden the hearts of others.