I had an opportunity this week that many dont have. Each year, Randy and I, chose someone randomly that needs a helping hand. Weve been blessed in so many ways over the years, but came from challenging pasts ourselves and know financial hardship personally. We dont judge. We chose according to what difference we can make and how much we can afford etc... This week, I challenged my OCD, my terrifying fear of driving outside my comfort zone and my chronic pain to travel to see a friend and spoiled her family rotten. I couldnt have done it without Randy and his encouragement and support. I also couldnt have done it without Stephanie Edwards, Tristen Paige or the friend I went to see, who encouraged me to use a wheelchair and scooters to speed up the process and get the heck in and out fast (I despise malls and grocery stores, contrary to most women). This challenge was a huge accomplishment and Im exhausted, but so very warm inside. Here is an excerpt of a comment I feel strongly about that I made to this friend. I challenge each and every one of my friends, family and acquaintances to do something similar. We are so blessed to be among Canadas many tax payers. Our taxes are high enough to support many families on low income, yet our loved ones suffer on ridiculous incomes that wont cover a months rent, let alone an average persons expenses. No, we wont claim anything from this past week for a tax break, but we know that at least a small portion of our debt is now for a good cause rather than our own selfish indulgences. :) It doesnt hurt to remember where we were before credit cards and bigger pay checks (and bigger debt. Thank you Alberta lol) All we ask is that others think this way as well. We may struggle without a few luxuries for a few months, but you and your boys will have a chance to start fresh and get on your feet again. Pay it forward love. Even a milkshake for a pregnant girl at staples is an act of kindness just as special as spending a few days splurging on your BFF and her boys. Reflections: This friend and her boys are still in shock and cannot express their gratitude. We are the ones who are grateful. Being in a position to help someone in need is a blessing in itself and Im certainly not sharing this experience to brag, but to encourage others to experience the feeling of giving without expectation of any reward. Just give because you can. Give because the warmth you feel inside is better than any new pair of shoes. Its almost addictive once you start. If you live comfortably from pay check to pay check with average vehicle, housing and credit card debt, then youre the same as us. But when is the last time you had to worry about whether to buy a loaf of bread or if you had enough gas to get to a doctors appointment? You know a typical parking spot in Calgary is $10 an hour? Whoa! How can the average person pay that?
Posted on: Mon, 24 Mar 2014 08:19:35 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015