We left the Village Oaks Community center, asking the kids who were inside to leave with us. As they inquired about where we were going, it became obvious we would have helpers. Lots of helpers.
“Can we come?”
The answer was easy: sure!
But, the kids had no idea that “coming with us” was going to be hard. We were going to be driving all over the property delivering Thanksgiving dinner baskets. And, Village Oaks is big. Really big. 29 acres big.
As the golf cart rolled away, loaded down with our first round of Thanksgiving dinners, the kids ran alongside and behind the cart. It was incredible.
After an hour of delivering baskets and then returning to the Community Center to pick up more, the kids were showing signs of fatigue. They were slowing down and their shirts were covered in sweat.
Was this as great as it sounded when they had first asked, “can we come?” To a few, yes – yes it was! The kids had seen the joy and thankfulness on the faces and in the words of the residents who received the baskets. They were able to share in the joy of giving.
When the kids asked, “can we come?” they didn’t know exactly what they were getting in to. They only knew that we would be delivering Thanksgiving dinner baskets together. They knew they wouldn’t be left behind.
Thanks to all the kids who came along to help us deliver the baskets - we are grateful for your help and enthusiasm!
-- Will Dowell
