The week before Christmas our school ran a Christmas-adopt-a-family campaign. This involves recieving wish lists from various families who are in need. Our school adopted over 30 local families. All the classes did well however I wish to tell you about my class.

The list we received from the family was simple and covered basic items. We wanted to give much more than this. So, we put a plan into place. We collected donations from students in the class (many of us have part time jobs) and we also went out into the community and asked local retailers and grocery stores if they were willing to donate. At the end of the week we had collected over $700. in cash as well as gift cards for grocery stores, retails stores, coffee shops, drug stores and we even scored some movie passes.

It was Friday and all the gifts were to be collected and wrapped. That Friday was a great day. Gifts kept coming in and desks were being covered with wrapped presents. We had so much come in that we gave some of our gift certificates to the school chaplain for others who may be in need. It was evident on this day that people are truly generous and giving. The feeling of all of us was that of peace and joy. Our teacher and all students in the class put their heart and soul into this project. What a great feeling to be able to come together and provide for others who do not have as much as we do.

On Christmas day I thought about the family that we had adopted. I thought about how happy they would be. I felt that was the true spirit of Christmas. We were living out the example of Jesus our Lord and Saviour, whose birth we were celebrating. I think Jesus was smiling down upon us.

This Christmas was one of my best yet. To my teacher and classmates, great work guys!!!

Merry Christmas to all!