Lockport Union-Sun & Journal — ‘Tis the season to be thankful and appreciative for all that you have so I bet that you’re thankful for all that you possess. Imagine not having what you have now, like the simple necessities of a home, food or water. There are people who don’t have those things right here in the same town as you. It’s important that you as a fellow citizen of this town and as a fellow human being do community service to help.

Community service isn’t just for those that have committed a crime or for the Christians of the local church. Anyone can do it, young or old, at any time of the year. There are four seasons in a year so that is at least four times a year that you can do service. In the summer you can help by volunteering at the local youth center to help keep the local children from getting into mischief. In the winter there is always help needed at the local soup kitchen to feed those that can’t afford three balanced meals every day.

When helping someone you learn to appreciate all you have. Seeing others who have so little when you have so much, makes you realize how blessed you are to have what you have. Also, you learn not to complain about what you don’t have. The simple things are learned not to be taken for granted and basic necessities are looked at with new eyes. You also learn not to waste things just because you can, and make use of things more than usual. 

Helping someone leaves a mark not only on someone else’s life but also on your life. The joy you receive from helping someone is great and leaves you feeling good about what you did. Whether it be helping give out food at the shelter or donating clothes you no longer need, knowing you’re helping someone is great. With selfless acts you are creating good karma for yourself. You are shining light in someone else’s darkness. Just think of the woman who was able to go to her interview properly dressed because you donated your suits that you no longer wear or the child that received toys that your children have outgrown. Go ahead and smile because it feels good to positively affect someone’s life.

Imagine if the shoe was on the other foot. What if it was you who needed help? Wouldn’t you want someone to help you? So following the golden rule that all my elders have taught me you should “Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you.” You never know what the future holds for you so it’s best to do and give while you can, for one day it may be you that will need help.

Kendra MurphyMacon, Ga.Ms. Murphy is a Mercer University student and a former Lockport resident.