Merry Christmas

As some of you know, my husband and I are living with my 92 year old father-in-law. We have been here for four years and it has had a huge impact on our life. The impacts and insights continue almost daily. This Christmas I have been especially touched by the two men who help us care for our 92 year old.
Chris and Marek have become a part of our family and this year I bought stockings that matched ours and hung them above the fireplace.
Chris approached me last week and very shyly asked if I was complete with my holiday shopping. I had barely begun composing the list of what we were buying and gave him that information. He then mentioned that he had noticed the stocking with the embroidered "C". "I am thinking the "C" is for Chris and that it is for me." Chris is normally not shy and I was wondering what he was trying to say. He then said, "If you have not gotten something for me, I have a special item I would like." My first thought was. "Good." I was struggling on what to get this man who loves our 92 year old almost as much as we do.
Chris the asked that we make a donation to the Jesuit Refugee Service to benefit the Haiti Earthquake Relief. Chris had heard a Jesuit speak at church recently. He was deeply moved and wanted to make a difference. His difference is to give his gifts to those who are suffering this year. This is not surprising. Chris is a man who gives daily. He gives not only to us. He works 50.5 hours a week, is actively involved in his homeowners association and the Eastern European community he is a part of. On Sundays you will see him at church volunteering at the "after the service" cafe.
We have honored Chris's wish to take the money we would have spent on his gifts and written a check to the Jesuits. I wanted to send the money in his name but Chris would have none of that. The gift was anonymous. The gift of Chris is anything but anonymous.
If you would like to contribute, you may write a check to the Jesuit Refugee Service/USA and send it to : 1016 16 Street NW Suite 500  Washington DC 20036. Let them know it is for the Haiti Earthquake Relief.
Have a Light filled season.