There’s charity and then there’s charity. They might seem the same but they aren’t. See, there’s giving, then there’s giving. Yes, both are important but the one that matters most is the one that touches your heart. You could be homeless and still have something to give. Matter of fact, I know you’ve heard it, sometimes those with the least give the most. I’ve seen it. I’ve lived it. I’ve been the charity case. It matters.
How you care for other people matters. The hand out should be more than that. It’s the “here, grab on, I’ll help you up”. This doesn’t have to mean they live with you. I mean if that’s what you’re called to do, do it. But what I’m talking about is simple, honest to goodness kindness and consideration.
That sad, old guy at the grocery store; maybe he just lost his wife and his kids don’t have time for him, say hello. Smile, tell him to have a nice day. Give him a few minutes if he wants to bend your ear. You know you will both walk away with a smile. It feels good to make others feel good, plain as apple pie.
Don’t be stingy with those compliments. So and so has a pretty shirt on, let them know it. Maybe they were like, hmmm, I’m not sure if this looks good or not when they put it on. Watch them light up when you mention it!
You see someone working hard, whether they are struggling or in the groove, tell them they’re doing a great job and you appreciate them. They might just need that one tiny, little boost.
That’s the real charity. You give when you can and if you’re called to do more than do it if you’re able. Let me tell you, when you are down and out and at your lowest, those little kindnesses from you or to you will set the ball rolling in the right direction. I’m telling you true, trust me, I know.
Channeled message from Lloyd Everest from the Appalachian’s. Lloyd said he came from a “White trash, backwood, pieces of shit family. The moon shined day and night and the belt ripped often.” He said he was “malnourished” and the “hogs ate better than me”. A kind, loving family took him in after a final beating when he was sixteen. His new mama loved him fiercely and told him, “They can’t take take nothin’ away from you that you don’t give ’em!”
Dedicated to my friend Kristie.