Our neighborhood Facebook page started a fascinating discussion thread the other day. It suggested that people list things they needed or things that they no longer needed. As I watched the discussion over the next few days, matches were being made.

Someone would note, “I need x.” Things like tools or gadgets were mentioned. Sometimes it was kids’ clothes of a certain size, usually to help a neighbor or family members or a foster family with a new placement. In a few cases it was a request for some help with a home project like helping to hang a light fixture or get a trailer tire installed.

And, the responses would trickle in. Someone had that tool to lend or would loan out their teenager to help with a chore. Kids clothes flew from house to house.

It also worked in reverse. Someone would note that they had something they no longer needed. Oh, it might be used and a little worn but it still had some usefulness in it. As items were offered up, folks would reply that they could use that very thing.

It didn’t appear that there were instances of taking advantage or giving away trash. It was just neighbors helping neighbors. What a wonderful feeling.

I have a closet full of clothes and shelves with so many books. I wonder who might need some of those? Are there people who would appreciate the things that I no longer need?

Years ago I was friends with a naval officer who had been on active duty for about 15 years. One day, she asked if I could help her clean out some boxes of clothes from her step-dad. I asked her how long her step-dad had been gone and she replied “9 years.” As we opened the boxes, I found a stack of button down shirts that were still in their cellophane wrappers. For 9 years, she had moved boxes of brand new shirts. Shirts that I knew were needed by men trying to get jobs and establish normal lives after living on the streets. My heart broke as the old plastic coverings crumpled in my hands. What a waste.

What do we have that someone else needs? I read that Toys for Tots’ and Salvation Army donations are down this year. It is going to be a tough Christmas for too many.

What do we have that someone else needs?

Love,

Jill (just one of God’s kids)

John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.” (Luke 3:11)