Yesterday, two friends met me at Home Depot to do what we've done the last 4 or 5 years. It's become a ritual for us to purchase 3 or 4 air conditioners to donate to a local organization. I say this not because I want everyone to know what great people we are, but to encourage others to do the same. After all, one of my favorite Biblical quotes is Hebrews 10:24: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." (NIV). You have to know about the example before you can follow it.
Purchasing an air conditioner can be expensive, but when you divide it several ways, it's doable. For $135 each, we will bring comfort to 4 individuals or families. In the past, we know that an air conditioner helped a woman facing surgery who was also concerned about recuperating in a sweltering mobile home. In any case, recipients are grateful for the gift, but it is we who are blessed to give it.
I would like to acknowledge management at Home Depot for helping us by giving a generous discount because of what we were doing. Good responds with good more often than not.
As someone who is affected by the heat, I cannot imagine life without air conditioning, yet many live in that reality. In fact, heat-related deaths are a major concern for older or disabled adults and children. In the past we have even purchased fans and cooling towels. So whatever blessings and resources one has to share, there is a way.
Our donations went to the same agency as last year, but we are planning to make the donation elsewhere next year. Different organizations serve different populations and we want to reach as many diverse individuals and situations as we can.
None of us can do it all, and we can't save the entire world by ourselves, but with a little help from our friends, we just might make the world a little better place for at least some of those in need.
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