I was recently at a school for a day observing, and what I saw changed me. The school was quite 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 states 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 for the weekend. About half of the class was also considered "special needs." In addition to the teacher, there was also a paraprofessional and a classroom aide there to help the kids.
And yet, despite their hardships, I witnessed an amazing thing that day. The school was raising money for the less fortunate so that those who needed a turkey for Thanksgiving could get one. The school had turned it into a competition between the classes: a turkey had lost its feathers. Each feather cost 75 cents, and whoever 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, to be sure, but even they don't make a lot of money, especially considering the work they do.
It just wowed me! Those who saw and knew the disadvantaged up close and personally did the most they could to help. If these people could raise this 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 to having a special needs family member and more.
Sometimes it just takes a reminder to make giving a part of Thanksgiving. Make sure your turkey gets its feathers this holiday season.
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