First, if you are curious as to what exactly a Blog-O-Thon of Doom is, read this post for a definition.
I used to, misguidedly, feel superior over people who pay special attention to giving at Christmas. Who were these selfish people who only think of others one time of the year. How much better the world would be if everyone would share the wealth year-round. Yep, I was pretty judgmental. It's a character trait I try to beat into submission every day.
Now, my perceptions have changed. I still think the world would be amazing if everyone would be as thoughtful year round, but I also have come to appreciate the kindness the holiday season brings out in people.
You see, November and December are two of the more emotionally trying months at my job as a school social worker. Bad things happen to families, caused sometimes (often?) by their own bad choices, and the children are left to suffer through the aftermath of Dad ending up in jail, increased domestic violence because of the stress of the season, Mom gone to rehab, and kids not getting presents because they just don't have the money.
There is nothing in the world sadder than a sad, hurting child.
That's why I've come to really appreciate the giving of the season. People's hearts open and so do their pocketbooks. I am able to help make children's lives a little happier, and ease the worry of the parents who couldn't "do Christmas." I can give new coats to children and watch their faces light up with joy that such a beautiful, seventeen dollar coat is theirs, and it even has a matching hat and gloves.
My faith in humanity, which takes a beating the other ten months of the year, is renewed. I believe again that people do care about more than the bottom line and that there's hope for all of us. So thanks to all of you who give and care, whether it be just at Christmas or year round. Either way, your kindness is a little ray of hope in a sometimes struggling, dark world.
Briane Pagel kindly allowed me to give away his book, Up So Down, to a random commenter, so I could participate in the Blog-O-Thon.
Last month Kimberely Gabriel won a copy, and now you can be the next lucky winner! Just leave a comment to enter and I will announce the winner on Friday.
I don't have my own book to give away yet (which is why Briane let me give away one of his) but I do have my book cover now! Here it is!
Now I just need to get the inside finished and I'm ready to roll! I'm in the middle of final edits (a huge thank you to my feedback friends) and am still aiming for a release in February. Stay tuned for further information!
How are your writing projects going?
Are you ready for Christmas?
