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THE POWER OF LOVE |
Bonnie MacDonald
We would like to introduce our most recent contributor to New
Perspectives, Bonnie MacDonald. |
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February, the month of love, is here and many of us will "give a little love" this month with the exchange of cards and maybe even a box of chocolates. It does however, seem somewhat artificial that we choose to communicate our love with a "heartfelt" sentiment written by someone we have never even met. Maybe this year we will choose to think outside the heart-shaped box of chocolates. Within our family and community the opportunities to show that we care are numerous because simply put, love is kindness. A helping deed, a kind word or a note of encouragement all qualify as true acts of love. In fact, if we all choose to simply make a whole hearted effort to smile and show respect for everyone we encounter for the day, or better yet, for the entire year, what a difference we will make! If planning a holiday to the sunny south this winter, why not spread some kindness to those who are living in less prosperous areas of the world? One does not have to look far to find people in need and we all know deep down that under different circumstances "those people" could so easily be us. Finding a way to share with those who are less fortunate can turn into an heart-warming family project and is a great opportunity to help children realize that not all children enjoy the same privileges. Simple opportunities to extend kindness in childhood will create values that last a lifetime and these children will become the empathetic adults who will help to transform our world into one of compassion and equality 03/02/2009 08:14 PM |
Children may enjoy preparing a Ziplock bag of small gifts for another child of similar age and may also like to include a handmade card with a special message. For children in underdeveloped countries a toothbrush, soap, shampoo, new pair of socks, yo-yo, deck of cards, skipping rope, marbles, stickers or box of crayons will be cherished gifts. Gift packages can always be passed along to hotel staff or local aid agencies to distribute, but the process of gifting is made even more special when children have the opportunity to visit a local community or school and hand-deliver their package to another child. You can be assured that their gift will be appreciated and that the love involved in preparing the gift will be returned with a hope-filled smile. It has been said many times over that the ripple effects of one simple act of kindness often go beyond a single lifetime, or to borrow the words of a great songstress, "The Power Of Love" is unimaginable. Happy Valentine's Day!
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