It is difficult for Reece to grasp the idea that there are families in our world, our country and our community who live with less, not by choice, but by circumstance. Over the last few weeks we have had conversations about why we purchase food for the food bank and why we dropped off hats and mitts to a Christmas charity drive on the weekend. I can tell from the expression on his face my explainations mean very little to him. I realize words cannot adequately portray to him the need of these families, it is not part of his little world and so very difficult for him to understand. I do know this will be something he gains an understanding about as he grows up, as his eyes are opened to the world around him.
Until then, I can begin to show him how we help others, how we can show love and compassion for those in need, and how we can bring a smile to someone's face with a simple act of kindness.
So, we will shop for food, we will donate items to families in need and we will jump in to volunteer when we are called upon, and when he asks why I will simply say: "to make someone smile".
I think that is such a wonderful response..and perfect as an explanation for a child...we should all be trying to make people smile. I am going to write that on my board today in my class in nice big letters! Thanks for the inspiration today!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree, making someone smile feels so good. So happy to provide some inspiration to you today, that made me smile...thank you.
DeletePerfect!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks KC!
DeleteSo true - this is such a hard one to explain to little ones. I love your answer!
ReplyDeleteThanks Gretchen :)
DeleteWhat a beautiful way to explain it. Hope you and yours are enjoying the season.
ReplyDeleteThanks Melissa. And yes we are enjoying the season, every moment.
DeleteYes, we all need more smiles!
ReplyDeleteWe most certainly do :)
DeleteThat is a great way to teach your kiddo!
ReplyDeleteThanks Taryn.
DeleteWhat a beautiful way to teach and explain. Keep smiling and making others smile :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Renee, you know I will :)
DeleteYou really are my favorite. We will probably not be in a position to give financially any time in the near future, but I already have plans to teach Isadora the importance of helping others by the giving of our time. I know there is an organization in our city that focuses on volunteer opportunities for kids and I really look forward to exploring those things with her as she grows. You are providing such a wonderful example for Reece.
ReplyDeleteAwe, thanks Sara. Reece and I were actually suppose to volunteer on Thursday helping to pack Christmas hampers for families in need this Christmas, but they had extra hands and got it all done before we had a chance to help out. I was really disappointed. It was going to be Reece's first volunteer experience. I love that you have an organization that focus on volunteer opportunities for kids, I will be looking for more things for us to do in the New Year.
DeleteAnother beautiful post. Much love, Julie xxoo
ReplyDeleteThank you :)
Deletethis is beautiful. Avi and I have been filling up our tzedakah box every Shabbat. it is almost full and I have been trying to figure out how to explain to him that we will decide who/where we want to donate that money and why. I love your idea of "to make someone smile". I'm borrowing this!!! hugs
ReplyDeleteThanks Jules. Borrow away :)
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