Share the Light

‘Tis the season to be _____________.  Fill in the blank. 

For me, ‘tis the season to be generous. 

A few nights ago, my friend Lynn and I were doing some late-night shopping at Target. In front of us in the checkout line were two young adults who had three carts filled to the top. 

I had to ask them: what are you doing?

They explained that they are teachers in a low-income school, where children do not give or receive holiday gifts. There just isn’t enough money. The teachers have a system: throughout the year, the kids receive points for good behavior, turning in assignments, kindness to their peers, etc. Around the holidays, the kids can use their points to “purchase” gifts for their families and friends. The teachers were already on their third stop of the night, having already filled their carts at Costco and Walmart.

I asked: How do you fund this initiative? The answer: donors’ generosity.

I happened to have a $100 bill in my pocket, even though I don’t often carry cash. I asked my friend if she wanted to split 50/50 and give the amazing teachers a donation, and she enthusiastically agreed. 

The teachers accepted with tears in their eyes. Even the checkout clerk was moved. “There really is good in the world!” she said. It was a wonderful moment.  

We’ve all heard stories of the generous stranger. The sparks of the stranger’s generosity go out and illuminate all who hear the tale.

The next morning, I received an unexpected $50 check in the mail. I remembered that Rabbi Tirtza Firestone teaches that money is a flow, a current.  That is why it’s called currency.  It has to go out to come back.  

Trust the process and watch for the flow! 

How will you be generous this season?