When I was talking to my mother today, she asked “Did you hear about the small miracle we created today?” I hadn’t so she proceeded to explain…
Rochelle and Scott at the Marine Ball
My sister lives in Okinawa with her husband who is in the Marines. They live off base with their dog Max. They have lived there for about 18 months now and from witnessing the military life from a distance, I have a deep respect for military families. Being away from home and apart from family and friends doesn’t even begin to describe the sacrifices then men, women and their children make.
So back to the miracle…
My sister Rochelle and brother-in-law Scott are opening up their home on Christmas for some of the young men who are single and have no family so they have a place to have a Christmas dinner and to spend the holiday. She put out the intention to have anyone who is supposed to be a part of their celebration to come. She was originally thinking about four or five people would be coming over for Christmas dinner.
Last night, she discovered that the final count is 14 young Marines will be coming over for Christmas dinner.
After my mom heard this she offered to contribute to some food expenses to show her support for these Marines. My grandma heard about it, my aunt heard about, my aunt’s co-workers heard about it…
Within about three hours a handful of people in Northern Utah heard about what my sister was doing and the envelope of money that was given to my mom to wire to Japan equaled $140. Now these marines not only have an amazing Christmas dinner, they have stockings of treats. Most importantly they have a place to be with friends and feel loved, supported and welcomed home.
When I heard this, and even as I write this, my eyes are filled with tears because of the generosities that we think are small, create memories for people who deserve it. We are the ones who create change, answer prayers, give encouragement and show people that love is possible.
One tiny act, one dollar, one hug and we never know who it will impact.
Thank you to my sister for being the one to say that this year there will be 14 young marines who have a beautiful Christmas dinner with their “new family.” Thank you to those who saw a possibility of where they could make a difference and they did it without question or an expectation of anything in return.
It takes just one person at a time to change the world.
Rochelle and Scott, I love you. You continue to inspire me. It’s an honor to call you family.
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Beautiful!
That, is what Christmas is all about!
The true meaning of “Tis the season”
Thank you for sharing.