I have reached the max on the holiday party. We have over 200 signed up guests, using the law of average on how many will no show because of unforeseen issues like illness. The list of gifts have been sent into the fire station and the donations for food are coming together. The hall is paid and insurance was covered by a dear friend. Christmas, the time to give when you can and share what you are able. I am cash poor but full of giving of myself, my talents and time. MY HEART!
I can tell you I have talked to over 60 families in the last weeks and each family has a story. Most are getting by; feeling the recession in some form. Very few are fortunate to not be feeling the hurt. Then there are the few that just make you so thankful for what you have. The families who have the bread winner out of work unexpectedly. They are loosing their homes, or have lost them. Their electric is off and they have no phone. They are in such dire straights that asking what their child wants from Santa seems almost inhumane. BUT, they are quick to answer for their child and they have a direct answer and most say they will be easy to please.
I had one family which was almost to the point I thought it was a prank call. The women would have been the actress of the year as I felt her pain so deeply. The sorrow that has come upon her family in the last 18 months is just incomprehensible, something most of us wouldn't live through in a life time and this family has had it happen in 18 months. Mom's life is terminal due to brain cancer and her five children have varied degrees of disabilities, one with leukemia and their Father passed away 18 months ago and their grandfather who helped role model passed this past year. Pray for this Cape Coral family as they need lifting through these very tough days. they will share in our Holiday party to have a moment of peace and fellowship.
God bless all those hurting at this time and may the new year bring peace and happiness in our country.
