Tonight we had a spontaneous discussion after our family prayer. Peter and I both mentioned that we wanted the kids to pay particular attention to others this week. To their siblings, friends, neighbors, and anyone that could use some service or a friend. Peter mentioned that there might be some families or friends that may not have a lot of money for Christmas. One of the kids asked what we could do about it. We explained about our fast offering donation and how it might benefit someone who may need it, but also talked about how a kind word or act toward someone may also be a gift.
This discussion brought me back to my own childhood. I remember many years during the holidays of these same type of discussions in my own home. Having my dad as the bishop or in the bishopric gave him and us an awareness of need in our neighborhood. I remember planning 12 days of Christmas for families needing physical things and others needing other types of support. I was often the "runner". I was old enough to be given this assignment but young and fast enough to be successful at it. As the runner, it was my job to quietly take the item to the door, ring the bell, and RUN! I usually got to the next house but often jumped into a bush or behind a tree to wait as the person opened the door, discovered their gift, looked around, and then closed the door again.
It was a unique perspective that I had. I watched as kids came piling out of a door with excitement to see what was left on the porch. I watched adults look down with surprise then delight. This happened 11 more times per family each year. After the 1st or 2nd night they would catch on and realize there was more to come. Sometimes it was so exciting I wanted to jump out of the bush and partake in the joy they felt. Sometimes I sat silent, as an adult or child would quietly say Thank You to the dark lawn. Now I realize that being the runner was the opportunity I needed to experience humility, true service, and love.
A year or two ago, our kids were fighting...a lot. I remember thinking to myself that they needed something to interrupt their habit of quarreling and think about others. Since it was Christmas time, I wrote each of their names on a paper and asked them to draw a name. They were then assigned to be a Secret Santa to that person for the entire month. To my delight they loved this idea and started immediately. They left notes on pillows expressing their love and complimenting each others talents. They did random acts of service by making a bed or picking up toys. They left a treat taped to a door or in a backpack. And then, they gave them a gift on Christmas and revealed who they were. Each year they ask with anticipation when we are going to draw names for our sibling secret Santa. I love that they love to do this.
Now that they are getting a little older, I think its time to expand outside of our family circle. Maybe its time to give our kids the opportunity to be a runner. Maybe there is a better way out there. I would love to hear others experiences and suggestions on teaching kids to give, serve, and love others.
I remember doing that as a child, as well. I'd forgotten about it until reading your post! Thank you for reminding me of that joy. I definitely want my kids to experience that too, especially as they get a little older.
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