Below is an email that has “gone around”. It is so important to share. I’d like to ADD to the sentiments below the idea of spending just HALF of what you might normally spend on gifts for friends/family on helping others, whether it be donating to a local or global charity or buying gifts for local people in need. Or spending your money on TIME together…a trip, maybe even a mission trip that can not only give to others at that current time, make amazing memories for your family, but instill values and discipleship in your children that will last a lifetime and create a snowball effect in their life! Consider it all…and let’s do SOMETHING that makes a difference for our families and our world!
Christmas 2011 — Birth of a New Tradition 
As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods — merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse ……that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!
It’s time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?
Everyone — yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?
Gym membership? It’s appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.
Who wouldn’t appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of putting down the Benjamin’s on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants — all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn’t the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn’t about big National chains — this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.
Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
Look around your community to find ways to make a difference – there are lots of them I promise! Groundwork has opportunities for you too. Maybe a mission trip? Or get involved with our Coat and Blanket Drive – which will go to families in transitional housing (at House of Refuge in Mesa, AZ) AND those living in very poor conditions in Mexico (we will bring them to distribute on the Post-Christmas Mission Trip). Contact us to make arrangements for you, your church or group to be involved!
Christmas Mission Experience and Other Mission Opportunities
