The other day, I went Christmas shopping, and met Ben for lunch. I was complaining during lunch that I wished that we had a bigger budget for Christmas, because there are a lot of things that I want to buy for myself and everyone else.
After lunch, we walked to exchange some money. We saw a woman with two young boys, and she asked us for some money. Ben gave her a few pesos - about two dollars worth. We exchanged our money, and on the way back, we saw the woman and her two boys sitting on a curb, eating a quesadilla. My mind went immediately to the few pesos that we gave her, and how that money very likely went to buy that quesadilla. Ben and I both had this thought at the same time, and we gave her a few more dollars. My heart broke when I thought about this mom worrying about how to feed her children.
It is impossible to adequately put into words what this experience meant for both Ben and me. It was a blessing for both of us to realize how fortunate we are.
I am so grateful that Ben has a job that provides a wonderful life. Our needs are taken care of, and more.
It made me feel ridiculous for complaining about our Christmas budget, and it put life into perspective for me.
I hope that I will be more focused on what I have and not what I do not. I have been blessed with so much, and for that I am truly grateful.
3 comments:
I'm so with you on that -- I have so much. I need to think more about my blessings and share what I have with others.
Love the post. We are trying to set a tradition in our young family so that it sticks with us forever. On the first monday night in december my kids have to go through and find 5 toys each that they are willing to give to someone else (even if it is to a second hand shop but hopefully a shelter) then we cleaned and wrapped them. The next monday we plan on delivering them. third monday we learn about St Nick and why he gave to others and prep them for christmas with talking about the Savior. Then each kid will only get a need, a want, a wear and a read (4 gifts) from the family christmas morning. We hope it will help set a standard of giving before getting. We will see if it works! love you cousin!
what a great story. I often find I need to be put back into perspective myself. We are so, so blessed- thanks for the reminder!!
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