Happy Birthday

This afternoon, a young man stopped by the South Plains Food Bank to drop off a birthday gift. He had just celebrated his 8th birthday. He was accompanied by his father and younger sister. In lieu of toys, he had asked his friends to bring cans of food for the food bank. Among the items he toted in were canned asparagus, sugar free Jell-o, assorted soups, and Mac 'n' Cheese... all things we like to include in the food boxes we distribute. (I'm not sure he minded giving away the asparagus.)

His "chauffer" was not in a hurry so we took a tour of the South Plains Food Bank and talked about what will happen to the food he gave us. The gift from his friends, which he is giving to us, will be a gift to someone else in our community who does not have enough food. It was fun seeing a food box through his eyes. He thought the cereal in the food box was ok, but didn't think we needed to include coffee. Canary beans are new to him and me! Our large freezer and walk in cooler seemed to be the most fun. They are BIG and Cold.

John Killenger is a writer and pastor I enjoy reading. My favorite book is "365 Simple Gifts From God." It contains 365 reflections on the joys and sorrows of life. He points out that gifts are most precious when they are unexpected. It is then that they carry their full weight as expression of love and friendship.

My young visitor today was a wonderful surprise ... and gift. Walking through the Food Bank with him reminded me again of the incredible generosity of people across the South Plains and across our nation who are compassionate and carrying. As a result children, senior citizens, single moms, and so many others are given the gift of food and hope.