Giving and Thanks for Thanksgiving

How a Turkey Got Its Feathers: A Story of Giving


I was once at a school for a day, volunteering, and what I saw really changed me. This school was very low income. At this particular school, the children sat at a hodgepodge of different tables and chairs, some of which had been made by the teacher out of plastic crates. Other seats were simply mats on the floor. Half of the 20-student class that I was observing received a "buddy pack" at the end of the day - - that is, a bag of extra food sent home for the child and their family for the weekend. About half of the class was also considered "special needs." In addition to the teacher, there was a paraprofessional and a classroom aide to help the kids.

And yet, despite their hardships, I witnessed an amazing thing that day. The school was raising money for those who needed a turkey and other food for Thanksgiving. The school had turned it into a competition between the classes. The idea was that a turkey had lost its feathers. Each feather cost 75 cents, and whichever class raised the most money and got the most feathers for the turkey could get a popcorn and hot cocoa party on the day before Thanksgiving break. This class alone had raised almost a hundred dollars, winning the party. The teacher, para, and classroom aide had all pitched in, I'm sure, but even they don't make a ton of money, especially considering the tough work they do.

It just wowed me! Those who saw and knew the needy up close and personally did the most they could to help. If these people could raise that kind of money to help others, what could those of us who are much more blessed do? I know we could do much, much more.

This Thanksgiving I'm hoping we can all find it in our hearts to give just a little more. There are all sorts of reasons people need help - from crushing medical bills, job loss, having a special needs family member and so much more. This holiday people need more help than ever.

Sometimes it just takes a reminder to make giving a part of Thanksgiving. So, please, make sure your turkey gets its feathers this holiday season.



How will you give this holiday season?

Let me know in the comments!


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