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ThanksGIVING NOT ThanksGETTING
By Janine Scott-Lowe, MD
This message is inspired by a new friend of mine (Thanks Tina!) She wrote this phrase to me, and it struck me so much that I had to write about it.
What a difference a few letters make...from GIVING to GETTING. From being OUTWARDLY focussed rather than INWARD. From looking to OTHERS rather than looking to OURSELVES.
I recently wrote a message to the soldiers and family members that I am PROUD to take care of, and think it is appropriate to share with you as well.
Most of us are looking forward to the upcoming holidays: spending time with family and friends, festive moods, time off, days of relaxation and happiness. But, this is NOT the case for everyone.
In this time of economic crisis, many are without the means to buy material items for their loved ones, whether for their DESIRES (games, toys, etc), or even for their BASIC NEEDS (food, clothing, or shelter). Also, as our soldiers are either still deployed, or are soon to be re-deployed, family members will be missing the physical presence of their loved ones as well.
To think of these things reminds those not experiencing them to be very THANKFUL. Although our situations may not be perfect, it is true that SOMEONE ALWAYS HAS IT WORSE OFF THAN WE DO.
May we NOT be SELFISH, but seek ways to provide happiness and joy to those who may not be experiencing it at this time. May we GIVE of ourselves in NON-material ways to brighten someone's life: such as with a smile, hug, or handshake. We can volunteer our time giving out food at shelters or donating items to charity. Or, we could make a difference in our own neighborhoods as well. How about taking out the garbage for a neighbor whose spouse is deployed, or who may not have a spouse? How about giving a
parent a break for a few hours by watching their children? What about delivering a meal to a family who may need it? Whatever way we can, let's LOOK OUTSIDE OF OURSELVES and TO OTHERS to MEET A NEED.
Have a HAPPY, HEALTHY Holiday season! My wish for us all is "Peace on Earth, goodwill towards men."
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Janine Scott-Lowe, MD is a Family Physician who practices in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, taking care of the soldiers and family members of the famous 82nd Airborne Division. She has two beautiful daughters, Kendall and Katrina.
You can find more articles and information about Janine's books on her website:
http://www.hishandsextendedonline.com.
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