2008 December Letter
Document Actions
I was watching the Oprah Show and my teenage son, Kyle, happened to be in the room. Will Smith was Oprah’s guest and he was sharing a story about Trey, his teenage son. Trey started questioning the importance of material things after his grandmother died. "He was there, in the moment, when she passed," explained Will. So for Trey’s upcoming 16th birthday, he didn’t ask for gifts, but instead asked his friends to donate presents to a children’s hospital. My son, Kyle, was impressed by this gesture but wasn’t sure he was ready to embrace such a bold move. "I’m not sure I’m ready to give up birthday presents," he told me. To quell his burgeoning guilt I reassured him that there were a couple of big differences between him and Trey. "First, you are 2 years younger than Trey, and second, your dad isn’t a billionaire," I explained with a laugh. I suggested he take a couple of years to think about the idea. I didn’t want to make him feel bad for wanting stuff, but rather encourage him to consider incorporating some altruistic options for the future.
"With environmental and social justice issues gaining ground and everyone rethinking economic priorities, introducing your child to opportunities for alternative giving can make a world of difference," says Elisa Bosley in our healthy kids column on page 34. We are experiencing a shift in our country’s thinking that involves the young and old alike. "Be the change that you want to see in the world," wisely states Mohandas Gandhi. Our nation has an affinity for doing just that. We pull together in times of need to make a difference. In this same spirit, next month Natural Awakenings is launching a new column to help facilitate connections that can enrich your life. Our new column will feature non-profit organizations working in our local community. We are looking forward to sharing inspirational stories and opportunities for you to get involved and make a difference.
In this issue we focus on the holiday spirit of giving. On page 26 you’ll be inspired to give from the heart. Find out how to bring sense and significance back to the season. On page 31 find super savings on healthy gifts for those you love. And on page 35 find out how to throw a green holiday party with eco-entertaining tips. This holiday season we wish you peace, comfort, and joy with those you love.
Happy Holidays!
Kris Urquhart, editor
