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Dear Friends,
November has always been a month for reflection. All Saints and All Souls days remind us of those we loved who are no longer here. We remember the goodness of those who came before us and give thanks for all they taught us. Their strength, their giving spirits and their simple desire to make a difference in the lives of others all have an impact on who we are and how we live our lives. So, who are the people in your lives who have made a difference and how do you remember them? My hope is that we can follow in their footsteps by being caring, compassionate, giving people especially as we begin this holiday season. Leo Buscaglia said, “too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” At Bread and Life, we see firsthand how the power of touch, a smile or a kind word makes a difference to our guests and they in turn give us the greatest gift of all - a sense of purpose and a greater understanding of how important it is to reach out to one another.
Since July we have distributed more than 1.7 million meals and 2.2 million pounds of food - an astounding accomplishment, and we are on target to distribute more than 5 million meals this year all while government support continues to decline. Our goal is to continue to serve in the spirit of St. Vincent DePaul with joy, compassion and respect and to see the face of God in all who cross our paths.
As we get closer to the holidays my hope is that we can remember those who have touched our lives and in turn, be willing to touch the lives of others. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukah or Kwanza may we do so remembering the gifts we’ve received and those we give freely to others.
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