After greeting a smiling first-grader at North American Martyrs School in Lincoln named Shea Sabata-Shreve, I noticed there were some missing front teeth. This brought back many memories when my sisters and I lost our baby teeth back in the day.
“How much did you get from the tooth fairy?” I asked.
“Fifty bucks!” she said.
“Fifty bucks!!!” I replied in a surprised tone of voice… “I used to get 25 cents per tooth when I was your age!” I informed her.
“Father,” she replied in a polite instructional tone, “That was for all six!”
Yes, things have become more expensive over the years. Some families are barely making ends meet. The pain for some families seems more acute especially during the time before and after the celebration of the birthday of our Savior Jesus Christ who came to us in utter poverty at that first Christmas. Who can blame the magi for initially searching for the newborn King in a king’s palace? How utterly amazed they must have been to find the Christ Child in a humble dwelling.
Each and every year I am amazed at the generosity of our donors during this most holy time of year. I have noticed through the years that while our donors exchange gifts to their family and friends, they never forget their brothers and sisters in the Lord who are in need (Mt 25:31-46). This is always something edifying to me personally.
Recently, I was informed of a little girl who was in need of a warm winter coat. Before the end of the day, we were able give her a beautiful coat that someone had donated to us. After putting on her new coat, she too had a beautiful smile. Sometimes it is the little things in life that are most appreciative.
As we get closer to the celebration of the birthday of Jesus Christ, please consider helping us spiritually with your prayers and penances. In addition, whether big or small, like a little girl’s coat, please consider donating any material item around your home or farm not needed. Finally, please prayerfully consider helping us financially with a cash donation according to your means so we can continue to love and serve Jesus Christ who lives in the poor and needy. Please be assured our prayers for you and your intentions.
