Many years ago I was riding a bus on my way to campus. A strange woman got on the bus and came to sit next to me when there were several vacant seats in front of me. I felt uncomfortable but knew my stop was approaching so I did not change my seat. Shortly afterward, the woman asked me if I had a dollar. She needed to get something to eat. I had a dollar, but lied at told her I did not have any money. The woman got off at the next stop, but before exiting the bus, turned and looked at me. She said, "Have a blessed day." A very cold feeling came over me as if to say, "Kevin, you may have missed a blessing."
There are people around us in need. Homeless families, people, unemployed, and others who are genuinely in need. We get bombarded with so many requests to help that we often ignore desperate pleas because the ask is daily. This time of the year is exceptionally hard as people also remember loved ones who departed this life during this holiday season. We can't give to everyone who asks, but there are people near us who need our help. We can be that blessing others need to get them through difficult times
It is very sad that Halloween gets more attention than Thanksgiving and we jump right from "Trick or Treat" to "Deck the Halls." Thanksgiving has been reduced to a meal at a family gathering, rather than a time to look back at your life and appreciate the accomplishments, victories, and triumphs experienced throughout the year. Yes, there were some struggles and challenges, but nothing in comparison to your being alive and well. This Holiday season, reflect and remember how fortunate you are. Remember there are many people who would love to exchange their problems with yours.
The next time someone asks for help, don't be so quick to ignore them or dismiss them. You don't know the entire story or why someone has hardship. Show some empathy and sympathy. Think about how you would feel if it was you in that place. If you have it, give it. There are people in our world who legitimately need it.
"Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." - Hebrews 13:2
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