a word on Christmas

Dear family and friends,

Don't buy us anything for Christmas. I am serious...no gifts, please.

Every year at this time - we carefully think about and plan on the gifts we give to those in our close circle. This year is no different...with one significant exception.

We've noticed the enormous need in our community. Basic needs are not being met. The number 1 problem in South Bend is hunger...not crime, not education - HUNGER. This problem is only going to get worse as more plants close and more people are without employment.

You might have seen the New York Times article calling Elkhart the "white-hot center of the meltdown of the American economy". Nice...

So this year, we won't be buying anyone any gifts, and will not be accepting any. Seriously - if you have purchased something for us already, please return it, and use the money to donate to a cause.

We all have plenty. None of us need anything - oh, of course, we have 'wants' - who doesn't? We all have a job, we have food to eat, a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs.

The gift we would like to give one another this year is the gift of knowing our gift-giving dollars will go to help those in REAL need.

...again, I am totally serious - don't anyone buy anything for us for Christmas; no clever gifts to the cats, nothing in the mailbox left anonymously...no gifts!