Why can’t I button this?

As I took the pocketknife from my blue jean pocket, I opened it to the punch and began digging another hole in my leather belt.

It is was easy to see that the Thanksgiving and Christmas season provided me a gift beyond measure, at least the measure of what my waist once was.

Sometimes I wonder if we have the strength within in us to say “No thank you, I have had plenty” rather than accepting one more serving, or that last little bit in the dish.

I know it is hard for me, especially when I like whatever is being offered.

This time of year this is hardly any food that doesn’t call out to me like one of those sirens they use to talk about that drew seafarers to their death.

In a way perhaps that is an appropriate analogy. Sometimes I feel like if I eat one more bite, I am just going to burst. It will be a terrible scene, worse than anything reviewed on “C.S.I.”

They won’t even know what did it – they’ll be standing around debating whether it was the cranberry stuffing, the baked ham, the cherry pie, the German chocolate cake with coconut on top.

It will be a mystery that will puzzle even Columbo.
I am happy to say though that I do not suffer in my misery alone. I know there are millions around the country who are unbuttoning their britches in the aftermath of the past few weeks.

Today, I walked through our local food bank. I saw row after row of canned goods ready to distribute to families and individuals in need.

The impact of the economy on persons of all ages in my hometown, continues to bring new faces in to ask for help wondering how they will make ends meet as they seem to stare into what they perceive as a bleak future.
Thankfully there are people willing to share what they have to see that they have something to eat, not just this Christmas but throughout the year.

There are also volunteers to counsel and offer comfort as they cope with the job losses, family strife or simply a change in living status.

As you lay back in your recliner, looking at the piles of torn glittering wrapping paper in the corner, or you peek into the fridge for one more piece of peanut butter fudge, remember that you are blessed.

It’s your turn now to help bless someone else, with your time, your knowledge, your gifts, and your money.
If each of us, in our own hometown were to help one other person this year be uplifted so they can make their situation better, wouldn’t it be amazing how your community would shine with the spirit of encouragement.

The government might be able to take a holiday itself.