Friends,
To all of the people I come into contact with during the course of a day, I take this opportunity to write a brief note to express my deepest gratitude for all that you mean to me each and every day. At this time of the year, we give thanks and celebrate a birthday followed by a new beginning. It is a time of family and friends – a time historically celebrated with gift giving.
Marie, Brian and I have chosen to take a different gift giving path this year. Rather than give everyone we know trinkets of appreciation, we have chosen to provide a true Christmas for a few families in the Philadelphia area that are unable to do so during these difficult and uncertain economic times. Three such families were referred to us by a pastor in a local church which was, for the first year ever, unable to internally aid its own congregation. The frames of these families we are honored to help with a Christmas dinner, clothing, and toys are as follows:
First, we have a single mother of three children including an eight month old girl and two boys, ages nine and twelve. The boys’ interests range from sports to drawing, and they have created their own series of comics, which they hope to share with their sister when she grows old enough to appreciate the fun. Second, we are helping a young married couple with two girls and three boys. And finally, our assistance is extended to another single mother with four girls (ages four, twelve, seventeen, and eighteen) and a fifteen year old boy. I have been instructed that the four year old likes anything pink, the twelve year old loves to sew, and the remaining two sisters entertain themselves with board games. The boy collects Hot Wheels.
We feel privileged to have the opportunity to help bring a joyous season to these three families. Without the help of everyone who touches our lives every day, we would not be in a position to do this.
To that end, we offer a heartfelt thanks from our home to yours this holiday season. May peace and generosity fill your hearts and the hearts of those you love as well.
Warmest holiday regards,
