Giving, by Nathan Dawkins

(Today's post is written by my son, Nathan.)

Yesterday I volunteered at a local charity providing food, clothing, and basic everyday items to the poor. I arrived ready to get my hands dirty and do whatever was needed. Four hours later, my mom arrived to get me. I sat down in the car with a huge sigh and a few epiphanies. I had been shown three basic things that day, and I think that many people overlook them.

First, I was shown the value of real, good leadership. I was amazed by the heart of the volunteers. They were willing to give away large chunks of time from their own lives for complete strangers. The only problem was that they didn’t have a leader. Or rather their leader wasn’t effective. They had a great cause but no one was really sure how to carry it out. (The leader was out that day and a sub was filling in. We need strong leaders everywhere!)

The next thing that I learned is exactly how blessed I am. The people who get their everyday necessities from this organization don’t have the luxuries that we sometimes take for granted. For instance fresh bread. Some of these people haven’t ever had fresh bread. It’s always stale, almost moldy, and not appetizing.

I also realized that friendship is incredibly crucial. As I cleaned, sorted, and stacked I wanted desperately for someone to talk to. When I got home, I was dying to talk to someone and socialize. That’s when I realized that it is so much easier to bless the community and serve with someone than alone.

I think everyone should take the time to give to the needy. I learned a lot this week, that I am sure will stick with me a long time. I hope the people this charity serves are blessed this Christmas.