Christmas blessing from years ago

Many years ago, when Christmas was coming up, our church was asking
members to donate to make Christmas a little better for those who
couldn't afford things for their kids.  We wanted to donate money, but
we couldn't even pay our own bills. I had been out of work for six
months.  We were buying food on credit cards just hoping and praying for
a new job.  We did have some time on our hands so we donated that to go
and buy things for other kids through the church offerings.  We figured
our kids were little (two and one at the time) and really would not miss
having lots of presents under the tree.  Their grandparents would
certainly provide some and honestly we really were at peace about it.
Well, after we brought back the gifts to the church our pastor stopped
us and gave us an envelope.  We didn't ask for it, but our church gave
us some gift cards anyway to buy some things for our family ...  It is
difficult to accept help, even when we need it.  It is more difficult to
ask for help.  Having been there I am constantly reminded that I need to
be as generous as I can be and look for creative ways to help others
anonymously.  It was a humble Christmas that year, but we cried a lot
out of joy.  We were so thankful for a church that helped us out.

Rod