The Day My Child Became a Giver

Our family began a Christmas Eve tradition two years ago. Whether we are home or on the road, we put cash into 17 envelopes that have been decorated by my children. My children walk up to 17 people that look like they could use a smile. Out of the 34 people who received an envelope, never once did my children get it wrong. There were tears. There were smiles. There was hope. Let me tell you how this tradition began … My older daughter has always gravitated toward the world’s suffering—always been one to want to know the world in its truest state. Starting when she was very small, the recurring question at bedtime was always: “Mama, tell me something bad that happened in the news today.” With reluctance, I explained in words she could understand about the atrocities that many faced, the dangers that lurked, and those who had lost so much. And then I stood by and watched her digest every troubling morsel I offered. Time after time, I worried that it was too much, too overwhelming, too disturbing. After all, the problems of the world are vast and insurmountable. At least that is what I used to think. But thanks to the heart of a child, now I know differently. It was my then 8-year-old daughter’s idea to go into the heart of the city with cash tucked inside lovingly decorated envelopes. Much to my surprise, hundreds of homeless people had gathered for a food distribution. I’ll admit I felt scared in that moment. I wanted to protect my children, cover their eyes and ...
Source: Conversations with Dr Greene - Category: Pediatricians Authors: Tags: Perspectives Parenting Source Type: blogs