Why is this so hard to share? I have read many of our amazing member's stories. Mine isn't anything new, just more of the same. But I hope to inspire just one person with my story. It starts 6 years ago or so.
Prison is FULL of good people who made a single or a series of bad decisions leading to incarceration. You don't hear about these people because they lay low and do their time without fanfare and notice. They continue to attend church, programs and services as they earn their way up the good behavior charts. How do I know? I have volunteered in a nearby prison for many years bringing a Christian based 12 step program to prisoners. I have been blessed further than any one receiving our program, and one great outcome is the knowledge of the ANGEL TREE program. Donations are solicited year round so directors can purchase gifts for children of the incarcerated. Why should they receive gifts? I used to think that, until I came to realize they didn't commit the crime, they are innocent collateral damage.
The prisoner (called offender on the inside) registers their child(ren), ages and interests. The presents are purchased, wrapped and given to the children as if from the offender, not the program. The children know they are being thought about by their parent in prison and are beyond ecstatic that they have a treasure from that parent. These gifts are not extravagant, in fact, chosen off a master sheet of items the program directors let them look through. Dolls, trucks, tops, coloring books, clothes and always age appropriate. They also get a bible at a Christmas party in the prison, and if the offender is allowed, attend the party with their child(ren). It is the MOST heart warming moment to see the parent and child reconnect. And yes, it is an open door for the family to receive help during and after the incarceration. Feel like making a difference? That would be awesome.
Small Acts of Kindness:
- Never pass up a Kool Aid stand without buying. Reward the entrepreneurship of those young people. I never drink or eat the goodies...but that's just me. (I had kids and know where those fingers go!)
- Never pass up the red kettle for the Salvation Army...but that's seasonal.
- Never pass up a giving a free meal for someone who clearly needs it. Give food, not money.
- Send a grocery gift card to a family you know can use the food to survive, anonymously. It is so fun to hear them talk about it and the joy it brings.
- My favorite, stick your credit card in a strangers gas stall and fill up their tank. I look for someone with an old car, fixed income or a car full of kids.
Other acts inspire me, and my reward is the joy it brings others. Do things because it will bless you, not for the recognition of it.
