I live in west Michigan, which is experiencing unemployment rates far higher than the national average. I live on Social Security Disability with a small allowance for food stamps. In these days of turmoil and furor, I like to count my blessings, and there are plenty of them.
At the moment, I'm working with my church to see if there's an individual who is facing homelessness so that I can bring her into my home and share what I have with her so she can get back on her feet and move forward. I'm also working with my neighbors to plant a number of small gardens in which to grow veggies and flowers for sharing with each other and with local food banks or soup kitchens.
Take a look around you. Are your neighbors keeping odd hours? Do they still go to work every day? Do their kids look like they usually do? If not, then they're probably going through a struggle that only you can help with. If they're polite and refuse any help, like a casserole or a trip to the store, just say to them "Please don't steal my blessing. I really want to do this for you." You'll find a smile is usually the response, and perhaps they'll even open up a bit about their predicament and give you, or someone else, a way to share what you have or what you've experienced to help them positive. It's a small thing, but it can reap great benefits for all. And if it's you that's having the difficult time, please don't be shy about asking for help. It'll make their day to know that they can have a positive effect on today's troubles.
Just wanted to share this. These are certainly "less is more" days. Learn to cherish them and enjoy the simple life once more. God bless.
By Polly
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What a kind person you are! Everybody could learn from your example. You're right, we all have much to be thankful for even when times are at their worst. My husband and I used to tell our children that when they opened their eyes for the first time in their lives and were Americans they were already way ahead of the game.
Please be careful about taking a stranger into your home! Not everybody is as nice as you.
You my dear are doing God's work. Yes the fields are white and you are blessed because you are going to work in the field. It also says in the bible somewhere about entertaining angels. When people let you in they are letting angels come in to bless them. Yes it is hard now a days but wirh many of God's blessing we will be ok. Again Thank you from the bottom of us all that is what America is all about helping others in time of need. No matter what color of skin or religion or what ever. For again it says love the sinner not the sin.
