My birthday (yikes, 39!) is coming up in less than a month. And I really love that. I loooooovvvvvveeee presents. My love language is presents, that is how I feel loved and show love to others. It isn't as greedy or superficial as it sounds, it just is how I was designed. :)
So I mulled over this thought I had for two days. Because, you see, I really love presents and pretty things.
But then I wised up, like any almost-39 year old should, and decided to just go with my mulling idea. This really only pertains to a few close people in my life - friends and family that year after year show up at my door with sweet and pretty things on my birthday. (I love you!) But here is my idea...
Instead of getting me something this year, would you consider instead using those funds to help me help a friend?
My friend has a hard-working husband and three kids. Her kids and mine play together every week. This week it came up in conversation that they were struggling financially. Their income is paying the bills, but each month it is a struggle to buy groceries. They are just above the income limit to receive assistance, and they are falling through the cracks. She gets creative. She returned Christmas gifts that she received this year in order to literally buy food for her family, and she sells possessions on Craigslist. They didn't buy any gifts for each other this year, including for the kids. (Sad!) They are doing their best to hang in there.
We have had lean times in our family, and had to watch our budget closely, but not to this extreme. When we want to save money, we eat out of our pantry. My friend has nothing left in her pantry. She wasn't whining to me or complaining, she has a positive spirit.
So if you are one of those people that always gives me a sweet gift, would you please buy me some food to give her instead? I have all I need, and I know a re-stocked pantry and freezer would really lift a burden for her. I know she would be very appreciative. If you'd prefer to not deal with that, I would happily do the shopping for you or pass along a gift card to her. In advance, thank you so much. This means way more to me than presents for myself. And that is saying a lot!
She doesn't know I am doing this, but I recently asked her for her grocery list so I could help too. Here is a blurb of that email to guide you in what might be helpful to them (though just about anything would be helpful I think)...
That is incredibly sweet and I am guessing you are correct in that it will be the best birthday you've had! :)
Posted by: Christie | 01/07/2011 at 12:39 AM
what a wonderful idea shawn. The fact that you love gift giving explains a few things for me (like your christmas and the lovely gifts you sent us). Brienne has a similar love language and it's beautiful to watch it develop as she blesses other people.
Much love and happy birthday.
Posted by: renee @ FIMBY | 01/07/2011 at 06:03 AM
VERY sweet Shawn!!!! A gret idea. Will do!!!! How about I give you a check and you buy for her? That Iwould love to do!
Barbara
Posted by: barbara curry | 01/07/2011 at 09:17 AM