The Less Fortunate And Christmas

     I feel obliged to write about this topic, as I have always viewed the spirit of giving to hold more spiritual and sentimental power than that of receiving.  I have been taught from my youth to love all those I come into contact with, and to always be considerate and caring to those who were less fortunate than me.  With the extremely cold temperatures and appearance of homeless people roaming the parks and streets, I cannot help but feel the same compassion Christ had for the beggars and disabled.
     I would like to call upon a story from my junior year of high school, that took place around Christmas time back at my hometown, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.  I had saved up a rather sizable amount of money and had my hopes set on purchasing a new video game.  Now, I am not a hardcore gamer or anything (and barely played this game other than the first few times), but I was definitely set on purchasing this new piece of expensive entertainment.  After happily making my purchase, my mother and I began to drive out of the shopping center towards home.  I noticed a man standing at the entrance of this complex with a sign that read "Hard Times, Any $ Would Be Appreciated".  Now, instead of investigating the thought of whether or not he was telling the truth (or would use the money for good), I had the spirit of charity overtake me.  We passed him, and, while we were almost out into the intersection, I told my mom to stop the car.  I ran out of the car, with the remnants of my savings in hand, and approached the surprised man.  He thanked me, but without a moments hesitation, I thanked him back.  I never realized why I said thank you, figuring that it was just a nervous response.  But I was truly grateful to be able to give, because I was blessing myself (as well as the man's) in a way I cannot describe.
     Let us all remember the spirit of giving.  I believe the spirit of Christmas is eminent no matter what around this time of year, but giving unlocks a realm of Christmas no other thing can.  I hope that we can all take time out of this holiday of gift receiving to engage in gift giving and service.  Make somebody's holiday worth it!