Someone once said that business is fun. You get to talk with coworkers, drink coffee, talk about ideas to make things better, and sit behind a nice desk. When the holidays come there is even more fun with office decorations, pot lucks, and Secret Santas. When corporate Christmas cards are mailed out the holiday spirit extends to customers, clients, suppliers, and there is always a hope that the employee holiday cards we receive will include a special holiday bonus. Cash, check, or gift card – any of these are welcome gifts. The message inside might say something like: “Your hard work and dedication throughout this past year are greatly appreciated. May you have a wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year.” Accompanying the message would be a handwritten note or signature from the big boss.
One year, in the corporate holiday card I received from my boss, he asked me to go Christmas shopping, a day after Christmas. A TV station tried to match letters to Santa written by needy local children, to people who would be willing to provide the gifts. The station had a few unclaimed letters from children because their families were so big. One was from a family of 14 written by a child named “Elvis.” My tender-hearted boss was watching so my coworker and I were sent out to purchase Elvis’s family a mountain of gifts.
The family of 14 was identified to us as being from the Lao Hmong culture. We had to do some quick research to find out what would be the best gifts. A brightly wrapped present was obtained for every individual. We finished our shopping by going to an Asian supermarket, and with the assistance of the market’s cultural food expert, a veritable food feast was selected.
We drove to the address which was a tiny two bedroom apartment in a run-down complex. There was an immediate language barrier when the marred door opened, but some of the school-aged children could understand why we came. Two boys eagerly helped us unload the gifts and the food along with a huge bag of rice. The father of the household arrived and remained at distance outside the doorway. He did not approach us but rather held his position in a deep, reverential bow. Once we were all inside the cramped, sparsely furnished living room we attempted to communicate with the adults without success. But, as we were about to leave an elderly woman came forward with a lovely hand-embroidered cloth in her hand; It was a “thank you” gift.
So you see, business is fun – fun for giving and receiving, especially during the holidays.
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What a touching story. The holidays are the perfect time to remember that, no many how many problems and issues most of us face in our own lives, there are always people who are far less fortunate than us. How much good could be done if everyone took a little time out of their own lives around the holidays to help a family (or individual) in need.
Your story brought tears to my eyes. What a heartfelt way to show the true meaning of the holiday season. I am sure you had no idea a day what opening that corporate Christmas card you would be given the opportunity to brighten what would have otherwise been a very bleak holiday season for the family. Generosity is really the best gift at the holidays whether you are being generous with your time or financial resources.