What does Christmas mean to you?
The other day I volunteered for a program, put on by my work, in which you take a child from an underprivileged family Christmas shopping with a $200 gift card. These children are nominated by their schools and are truly in need.
When I met my assigned kid I thought he’d be excited to get some cool toys or gadgets. We had a pizza lunch first and we began to chat. He was shy, but opened up slowly. He had never been able to buy himself anything, and his school had advised me he didn’t own a winter jacket.
After lunch the shopping began. I asked where he wanted to go first, suggesting we find him a jacket. He said no, pulling out a piece of paper from his pocket. He had put together a list of all the gifts he wanted to get for his family (mom, dad, grandmother and four siblings). Of course I said okay, amazed at his generosity. We found a necklace for his mom – a chain with a gold heart pendant. He was over the moon excited, telling me that he had never had money to buy his mom anything.
As the afternoon went on we found gifts for everyone. The balance on our gift card was disappearing fast. We then went looking for a pair of shoes for him, ones that actually fit. As we walked past a Salvation Army stand, he turned to the man standing there and asked if he’d take the gift card.
At this point I froze, amazed at his selflessness. The man smiled and laughed, telling him that he was an amazing young man but he should find something for himself.
We found some shoes for him, and then went looking for the winter coat. We had $48 left. We found the cheapest possible jacket, an $85 winter coat on clearance. After explaining what we were doing to the cashier, she was moved and used her employee discount. Our new total was just over $60. Reflecting on the day, and the amazing generosity of a nine-year-old boy who never had money to spend, I pulled out my wallet and covered the difference.
I urge everyone out there to re-evaluate the meaning of Christmas – I know I have.
Merry Christmas everyone, and to all, a good night.
