Helping hands

There are a lot of helping hands in our community.

The other day I was on an assignment where a company had donated 50 turkeys to the Rescue Mission for the Thanksgiving dinner that they provide every year at the American Legion Hall on Main Street in Merced.

The dinners aren't just for the homeless--they are for everyone. Feeling a bit lonely and and don't want to be alone? Go to the American Legion Hall, have a hearty meal and meet some people that are feeling the same way as you do. You don't need to be alone during the holidays. Or you can even volunteer to help serve, or just help in general.

Last year I helped to serve the dinners, and there was this one little girl who kept coming back for more food. I thought to myself, she must have a very hearty appetite. Come to find out this 6-year-old was helping others who couldn't carry the trays themselves. What a wonderful feeling to see such a young child helping others. There is hope for all of us.

Too bad this couldn't happen all year long, not just during the holidays. There are countless people who could use a visit every now and then. People in nursing homes, people who sit in the malls watching people as they walk by. Just a quick hi or a smile. That could make their day. I know it does mine. It is just the thought that someone took the time to care. So as this holiday rolls around, smile and have a very Happy Thanksgiving.