the beautiful art of coping

The shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary at Newton, Connecticut brought the nation's hearts together in a pull of shock and depression. No one could make sense of the event, amidst that comfort was scarce when thoughts of the lives taken were placed into our minds. I was distressed when I heard that the victims were little children. However, I do not wish to dwell on this event for my post. Instead, I'm going to turn the table.

Christmas. It's a constant battle between the materialistic and the spirit of Christmas. It's the season of getting and giving. The time of year devoted to happiness and pure joy. Stores give free totes and stuffed animals to their customers. Parents gift their children little presents throughout the month of December. Friends give each other gag gifts. Best friends present a sentimental card and gift. Children draw the later-to-be treasured pictures of Christmas trees and families. We all know what I'm talking about. December is a month full of giving and receiving, and let's all admit it WE LOVE IT.

This season has been full of service for me. My friends and I are doing Secret Santa. My family participated in a ward project of Sub for Santa. The youth and I made and handed out fruit baskets to the widows in our neighborhood. Almost every night we have received presents and plates of homemade treats for our family from our neighbors. Our driveway has been shoveled by neighbors, when we are perfectly capable of shoveling the snow. In essence, service is everywhere in this wonderful season.

This post was supposed to be published a while ago but I guess I never finished it. Back to the post, I had read a newspaper article of how because of the shootings a hashtag #26Acts was created and it's purpose was to inspire people everywhere to perform 26 acts of service, one devoted to each of the lives lost. I think that's such an awesome idea that Emmie and I actually tried taking this on. I love performing service, it makes me feel good to give back and I know that the receiving end is very grateful for all service. This is a belated call to be more service active! And I think it's the perfect time to start since its the new year! I'll be trying to do more service whether it's just smiling at someone in the hall or buying hot chocolate for strangers. Do your part!