Last night we were at a little neighborhood gathering visiting with friends who had just returned from a nightmarish travel experience. They had flown round trip Phoenix to Memphis, and we all know from the news reports that travel the past week or so has been a super challenge. These friends, Ronnie and Robin, are blessings to us and are kind and generous with everyone they encounter. Knowing that the airline personnel would be overworked and likely stressed from complaints, cancellations, etc., they carried with them treats to give the flight attendants and pilots. After sharing the gifts of cookies, they said the gratitude shown them was almost embarrassing as the recipients were so appreciative of this little act of kindness.
Jerry and I must confess in all our years on this earth we never heard of anyone taking gifts to airline personnel. It sure never dawned on us to do that. Because of this sharing, my beloved and I have made a vow that the next time we fly this is exactly what we are going to do. It will take so little effort to carry a few zip lock bags of homemade cookies and/or candy (or store bought) as a small act of kindness to these hard working and often under appreciated servants.
Matthew 25:40 gives us a perfect wrap up for this message: “The King (Jesus) will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'” An explanation and commentary I found on this verse states the following: “There is nothing in the Bible that would suggest that it is possible to separate love for God from love for people. We love and worship an invisible God. He has forbidden us to make an image of himself, but he has put His image into mankind. If we would see him and serve him, we must see and serve our fellow man.” To read further on this commentary, click on this link: https://connectusfund.org/matthew-25-40-meaning-of-whatsoever-you-do-to-the-least-of-my-brothers
As the old year quickly ends and 2023 is just around the corner, we encourage you to look for opportunities to spread joy to others. We would love to hear from you. Tell us ways you carry out acts of kindness throughout the year….visits to senior centers and shut-ins, extra tips to hairdressers, etc. We encourage all suggestions. And PLEASE hold us accountable. Feel free to check up on us as we attempt to practice what we preach. Seriously!!!
Happy, safe and healthy new year!
Very nice. Wishing you both many blessings and much kindness in the New Year. I hope you both often see, and show the face of God.
Much love,
Mary
Happy New Year, Jerry and Charlotte!
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace”
Charlotte,
Beautiful sentiments ❤️. As a flight attendant for 34 years, we have gotten many treats including Starbucks gift cards, hand lotion , sanitizer, socks, endless unique items. Unfortunately, the last thing we will do is eat homemade treats. Because we can’t trust everyone in this strange world and we don’t know if homemade goods are safe for us…we accept them with gratitude but throw them away for our own safety. Just a heads up.
Great story, as usual! With all the turmoil the airline personnel were probably shocked that someone was civil. But, as you note, it takes little effort to spread kindness . . . We need to remember to do so more often. Have a great New Year–all year long.
We love you both so much! We couldn’t be happier that you both adopted Ronnie and I as your niece and nephew ❤️ Many blessings to you and Jerry this new year
How awesome were your friends!! There are so many good people in this world including you and Jerry. You are so inspiring!! Thank you and I plan to have a blessed and happy new year together with you!!🎉
We want to join you two and the host of others spreading joy to others in 2023. Wishing you a great and purposeful New Year! Love and prayers. The Kirbys
Dear Charlotte my sister flies to Florida often about every 3 months and always takes goodies for the crew
Happy new year
How wonderful, Char! What a fabulous idea, which I will also be doing going forward. Happy New Year to you and Jerry. Big hugs from Florida