When we think of those less fortunate we naturally think of those poor souls in Third World countries who so desperately need our help. Certainly we need to do more to relieve the fear, hunger, and illness around the world. Those living under tyranny and in need of assistance to survive should shame every single caring human being to come to their aid. How can any of us see an image of a starving child and not be moved to help ? If we believe in our faith as we profess we do, there is no excuse for failing to respond in every way possible and demanding that our governments  act accordingly. Standing by and doing nothing as ethnic cleansing and genocide occur is not only grievously wrong, it is a sin against our faith.

But in addition to these horrendous situations there are those who are our own neighbours who also are suffering and in need of a friendly helping hand. This year is not so different from other years, there are always those who need our help. Those who are homeless, and without resources are increasing in number each year and this is untenable in societies such as ours. But this year there is another problem which we all need to be aware of and to address. Katrina  has created a vast number of displaced families, some who have relocated and are only just beginning to find their bearings, and a great many more who have lost everything they possessed and are being shunted from one temporary shelter to another and  have no idea when or if their homes will ever be habitable again. Can we even imagine the apprehension and worry they are experiencing every single day ?

In the aftermath of the hurricane and the flooding, and with Katrina victims in the news daily, there was a vast outpouring of sympathy and anger that such a horror had been allowed to occur by officialdom in a country considered to be the wealthiest and most powerful on earth, and the decency of people everywhere was very much apparent. However, as time has passed, the horror has dimmed and the awareness of the plight of so many of our neighbours has receded as daily life again  has demanded our attention. But for the Katrina victims the need continues.

Can you imagine how they face this holiday season ? As we sit in our warm comfortable homes, planning holiday parties, wrapping gifts, trimming our trees,  decorating our homes, and planning our family gatherings as we prepare to celebrate this season of goodwill do we even think of those families who have no home this year ? A motel room, a tent, or a homeless shelter does not provide the opportunity for gathering of family members from far and near to share the happiness of  being with loved ones during this season . And when one is scrambling to provide the bare necessities of life for one's family I am sure gifts are very low on the list of priorities. Will their children have a happy Christmas ? They have lost their beloved pets, their precious favourite toys, their homes, their familiar surroundings, and in  many cases their innocence is forever gone.  We must remember them as we count our blessings this year.  And, if possible find a way to see that every Katrina child has a Christmas. If we can only do this little bit  perhaps the faith in their fellow man will not be another casualty of this disaster which has changed their world forever.

Our friends are like angels who brighten our days In all kinds of wonderful, magical ways. Their thoughtfulness comes like a gift from above, making us feel we're surrounded by warm caring love. Friends sharpen our sight so that we may see the delightful possibilities of the world around us. Won't you consider doing what you can to help the Katrina children see that the world does care ? Don't just count your blessings this year ... add to them. Trust me, you will not be sorry, I promise you.

 Doing a very cursory search I found several organizations who are co-ordinating toy drives and other Christmas related projects for Katrina children. Here is just one example. There are others which you can find by doing a simple search on line. Help these children and you also help their parents. Every parent knows that seeing a smile on their child's face on Christmas morning is most assuredly one of the very best gifts we receive.

Make this a Happy Holiday for these youngsters and  you will find it will be a special Christmas  you will remember always. Being a friend to those in need pays enormous dividends. The feeling which inevitably fills your entire being knowing you are bringing happiness to others, and particularly children, and helping to make their lives a little less bleak during this season of goodwill is a gift beyond measure. Give yourself that priceless gift this year.  Please extend a hand to those who desperately need your love and compassion this year more than ever before.