Good Deeds #HAWMC

It's not everyday that I can truly give to others, so it was especially wonderful when my husband and I were able to this past Christmas.  We share a very good friend whom we met back in Hawaii when I was in college and my husband was in the Marine Corps and stationed there.  Although we left the island seventeen years ago, we remained close friends.  It came to my husband's attention that she was having a hard time financially and was struggling with buying Christmas gifts for her three children.  He came to me with the notion of buying them each something significant so that they had a nice Christmas.  Normally, we aren't in the position to do much for others being that we are a single income family.  My disability checks help but it's a small contribution and not enough to pull us out of the hole we're in.  God had been able to bless us with the extra money over the holiday to make things better for our friend and her kids.

Last year, we bought our three kids each a Kindle Fire tablet.  They loved them.  Our boys are always on their tablets watching movies or playing games, and it keeps them occupied during long road trips out of town.  Being that they were such a hit with our brood, we figured that hers would really enjoy them too.  The price was affordable and we were able to get them each a different color tablet.  We didn't tell our friend that we bought them and let her know that something will be coming in the mail.  She was so surprised when she got the package.  Never had she thought that we would get her kids something like that.  She's family to us and it broke our hearts to think that they would only have one gift each to open. 

It was such an honor and pleasure to bring smiles to that family.  I wish I could do it all the time.  When I find myself in a position to help others, I do what I can no matter how small the act is.  Holding a door open, saying thank you, and smiling all give others some sense of appreciation and acknowledgment.  Being kind, generous and genuine with those around you makes everyone happy.  Not only does it benefit the ones you extend these niceties too, it benefits your soul and overall well being.  It's a good habit to keep.