Both Sides By Rev. Nina D. Grey December, 2003

It's the season and I'm thinking about giving and I realize, there is a tremendous lot of giving going on within our congregation in these days of shorter daylight and lengthening nights!

Sometimes it is the giving of time. I think of all the hours so many put in to make our Seder such a magnificent event. I think of all the hours so many of our church volunteers offer in so many different ways and with a generous heart.

Sometimes it is the gift of money. I think of the folks, younger and older, who are filling Guest At Your Table boxes. I think of the many who contribute to our church, the many who contribute for the Hyde Park and Kenwood Interfaith Council, the many who give to the Chicago Children's Choir or to so many other important social causes.

Sometimes it is the gift of witness and advocacy and truth-telling, as people committed to justice seek ways to express their deep feelings, fears, angers, hopes, and dreams in the face of war, violence, economic inequities and suffering.

Sometimes it is the gift of presence and hospitality. I think of those who open their homes to others for holidays. And I think of those who visit or call or send cards to folks who are sick or shut-in or who are lonely or grieving a loss. And I think of those who welcome newcomers into the life of our congregation. I think of those who serve food at the Interfaith Council's Open Kitchen or in other ways contribute their presence for the sake of others and in the service of healing our world.

So, so many ways of giving going on every day!

I am also thinking of families who are separated for longer or shorter times, as a member of their family gives of him or herself in service, in our armed forces, or service in a non-profit social effort. If you have a loved one who is giving in this way, know that our hearts are with you, and that we know that you also are giving a great deal, as you cope with missing a loved one.

Holiday songs, stories, lights, customs, food, parties, and family and friendship gatherings encourage acts of generosity and kindness. We often have to be careful not to overspend our money or time on less important things. We want to take care to give not only to others but also to give time and energy for our own self-and-family nurturing. While being careful, it is good to find meaningful ways to observe the holiday rituals of giving and to take in the gifts of others with a spirit of gratitude. Rituals of giving and receiving can remind us about the power of generosity to open hearts and create hope. And hope is certainly a gift we need in our time.

In these days, may your giving and receiving be experiences of wonder, joy and grace,

Nina