The day that my column on pickleball appeared in this publication, both my daughter and son called me. I had a nice conversation with both of them. Each of them played high school tennis for me; though they weren’t stars, they were in the lineup. I know that they enjoyed the experience, and I’m so happy that I didn’t try to ram tennis down their throats. I’m also pleased that they understood the etiquette that is a part of tennis.
When I talked to them, they repeated my comment about etiquette. Both of them mentioned that the “pickleball attitude” is a reflection on modern-day society. Too many people are concerned with what they can do for themselves, and not for others.
If one is not careful, it can be so easy to worry about oneself, and to focus on what is wrong in one’s own life. It is just as easy to make mountains out of molehills. Before long, one can be in a huge funk, and maybe not even realize it. Hardly anyone is immune.
When I start to feel that way, I try to remember my Mom’s words. She would say, “Someone always has it worse than you.” And, she was right.
Soon, most of us will gather for a Thanksgiving meal, and we will give thanks. It is important to be thankful for the gifts that have been bestowed on us. I am thankful every single day for everything about my life, including having a roof over my head, clothes on my body, good health, my friends, and my relationships with my family. Though, I worry that in today’s world, not enough people think about that.
Also, I believe that it is a job half-done. I feel that there is more to this. Being thankful is important, but I believe that we are called to do something more.
Scripture is full of references to the importance to be helpful to those in need. Sometimes, we lose track of that. There are people who have the ability to help others, but choose to not take the effort to do that. That is unfortunate.
Here in Clearfield, there are people who struggle to carve out an everyday existence. We probably know some of them. No doubt, there are people who worry if they will be able to pay for the bare necessities of life.
This is why, this Thanksgiving season, I urge you to be helpful to these souls. There’s lots of ways to do this. It’s not that hard.
Are you in the checkout line behind someone with important daily items who comes up short to pay for it? Go there.
Maybe you know someone who can only afford to eat peanut butter sandwiches and canned soup every day. The next time you cook, make a double batch, and take it to that person.
Or, when the snow flies, take your snow blower or snow shovel, and shovel the sidewalk for someone who isn’t able to do so.
There are lots of people who live by themselves, and are likely lonely. Stop and see how they are doing, and ask if they need anything. Sit and have a conversation with them, about anything. To a lonely person, time spent with him or her is more precious than gold.
We read every day about wealthy people who make large charitable donations. That’s all well and good. In my opinion, and certainly in God’s eyes, small acts of charity done by everyday people are just as important, likely more so.
Enjoy the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, and be sure to be thankful for everything you have. But, do remind yourself to do more. Seek out those who could use a lift, and “just do it.”
My daughter has a poster hanging inside her home which reads, “When you have more than you need, build a bigger table, not a higher fence.”
Words to live by.
