i forgot the witty light subject line i had for this entry.

Im not rich.

 

lets face it. Im not even close.

 

I wont let religion muddle a post to be viewed by many a different people. i like to keep it simple and keep people united.

 

but one thing i strongly believe in is giving back.

 

my goal in life is to ultimately be happy, and raise a happy, caring, compassionate child.

I try to keep him involved and completely aware that we live an extremely modest life.

and that some children, some people in general arent even as blessed as we are to have food nightly, a warm home, and our good health.

to keep him, and myself, in check, i try to lead by example.

 

I have certain things that have become staples, traditions if you will.

 

Each holiday season we have and we will pick out a gift or necessity for a child in need. while he is younger it will be toys, but as he grows i hope to expand that to clothes or supplies, so he knows that giving isnt always about the fun things, but the necessities.

 

I also plan to expose him to food banks and food drives, school supply drives, and blanket and coat drives.

 

also, i want him to see me giving in the most important of times...even when we dont have much to begin with.

 

my favorite currently is St. Jude. Maybe its the mom in me that has my heart clamoring to do anythign to help those poor children and their undoubtedly wrecked parents. 

I can usually only give in about 5$ increments, but i know those 5$ can go a long way.

 

Im also a believer in showing that it doesnt take money to make a difference...taking meals to those grieving, or helping someone with a new baby to get some rest, donating items to a local thrift store instead of throwing away; there are countless ways that i need to make myself more aware of to help others and raise my son to be observant to needs as well. Heaven knows ive been on the recieving end enough to know the importance.

 

 

What ways have you contributed? do you have any traditions with your children or ideas to help me in my quest to raise a compassionate child?

 

i know if we all were financially secure we would give monetarily, but for kicks, what cheapy things have you done that can help us make a difference?

 

do you have any stories about your child or family being involved in a great cause? id love to hear em :]