Some people are willing to give the shirt off their back. My bonus mom gave me the socks off her feet.

Let me explain.

I went to work thinking the temperature was warmer than it was. But it was chilly, and I’d worn flats instead of the boots I would have worn if I had checked the weather. My bonus mom stopped by the office, and she could tell I was chilly. She had come straight from home and pulled off her fuzzy black socks for me to wear for the day. I resisted, but she’s one of the few people I will rarely argue with. My feet were sufficiently warm for the day. And I was grateful.

I think about it often when I am giving away items I no longer need or I see a need someone has. I think about the habits most of us have. A lot of people are willing to give away what they have used and no longer want. They’ve changed clothing sizes, decorating colors and styles, and preferences. Some items might be brand new. And it’s a good thing to share with others. Why clutter our own spaces when others need what we have? But what will we give when it’s inconvenient? How much time or money is too much for us to give? When will we not stop to help, pause to listen, tolerate wet clothes because someone needed an umbrella?

How do we define generosity in others and ourselves? What do our actions and sacrifices say about our values? What’s the line we will not cross, and is it established for wise reasons?

You’ll encounter people’s needs today, and you can’t meet every one. The first step is noticing. The next step is determining what you are willing and able to do, either personally or by inviting others.

Noticing isn’t enough sometimes.

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