I am sure you have heard the saying, ‘Good fruit does not fall far from a good tree.’
We know by faith that charity is one of the infused theological virtues. Virtues, of course, are good habits that, when practiced, bring one closer to God. Each virtue has an opposing vice, which when practiced, lead us away from God. The vice opposed to charity is hatred. When the love of God is lacking from the soul, that soul becomes selfish rather than selfless.
Since charity is an infused virtue, it is placed into the soul at baptism. However, in order to grow in the soul, one needs only to cooperate, and for children, the proper example and guidance of their parents is paramount. If you doubt what I say, place two 4-year-old boys in a room together with one toy truck and see what happens....
During the last Advent season, the Koperski family decided to do something for families in need. They purchased fabric, stuffing and other materials needed to make warm blankets, pillows and stuffed animals for adults and their children. After receiving a call from their father David, we set up a time for them to come in and drop off the handcrafted gifts. 
It was a family effort, though the children did most of the work. The project was spearheaded by Julianna, 13 (who taught herself how to sew a few years ago), and the rest of her siblings: Dominic (11), Lydia (9), and Aiden (2). As dad said, “It’s funny that we can take a pillow for granted!”
Last year, I asked Jack Crowley, one of our Bountiful Harvest corporate members, what differentiates a generous from a non-generous person. Without batting an eye he responded, “Happiness.”
He has frequently told me that there is great joy in giving. Isn’t it true? The happiness in the children’s faces as they brought these beautiful gifts to our office was even more evident when they posed for a picture.
I would like to thank the Koperski family and other families like them, for this is not the first time children have given themselves in projects for CSS. In addition to thanking the children, I always like to thank their parents for, ‘Good fruit does not fall far from a good tree.’
