The True Meaning of Christmas
Every year around November first, when I have lost all faith in humanity, and I am already tired of the commercialization of Christmas. I look to my cousin Lucie to restore my faith in all things good, and remind me of the true meaning of Christmas.
It all started in 1993 after the passing of Carrie Young, Carrie worked at the Blue Mountain Nursing Home in Prairie City Oregon. She had a heart of gold, and the most kind soul. She loved her job, and the residents in the nursing home loved her. Carrie was in a tragic car accident that year that took her life, she was 32 years old.
After Carrie's passing her family learned that she had been buying Christmas gifts for the residents at the nursing home that had no family. The cost of these gifts came out of her own wallet. She never said a word, she just wanted to make sure everyone had something to open on Christmas Day.
Learning of Carrie’s kindness, her sister Lucie decided to continue the tradition Carrie had started, and make sure the nursing home residents had gifts for Christmas. So Lucie, along with her sister Christie and mother Dolores, started the Carrie Young Memorial. The first year they raised $50 in donations to buy gifts for those without, in Carrie’s name. Every year since it started, Lucie, her family, and friends have grown the Carrie Young Memorial to provide gifts to put under the tree for all the residents in four assisted living facilities, and have helped over 200 elderly living at home with heating expenses, groceries, medical bills, and whatever needs they have.
This year, with months of planning and hours of work, items donated and auctioned. The Carrie Young Memorial raised over $60,000 to help the elderly in Grant County Oregon.
The work doesn’t stop there. After the funds are raised Lucie and her crew head to Boise ID to shop. Gifts are purchased and brought back to be wrapped. The local high school students get in on the giving by wrapping all the gifts. They are them delivered to some very happy folks.
Throughout the year if there is word that someone needs help with some fire wood, heating oil, or groceries. The Carrie Young Memorial quietly steps in to offer help.
This kindness, not only from a sister's love, but from the giving spirit of so many, restores my faith in humanity. It is a true example of what Christmas is about. Giving to those in need, and expecting nothing in return.
Carrie I know would be so proud of what Lucie, and her family have turned her act of kindness into.
I hope we can all remember kindness this season, and help those who need it. Cherish your families, and all have a Merry Christmas.
For more information about the Carrie Young Memorial visit https://carrieyoungmemorial.weebly.com/