Yesterday I did a volunteer shoot to photograph under privileged children for the Lawrenceville, GA Kiwanis Club (thanks go to Glenn Martin for asking me to do this!).  This is the 2nd year I have done this, and it’s always a great time.  Kids get their pictures taken with Santa, as well as get their faces painted and play at several craft stations.  Volunteers cook burgers and hot dogs and serve the kids and their families.  Also, the Kiwanis members shop in advance, so each kid leaves with a load of toys from Santa … everything from dolls to bikes.

Participating again this year served to remind me of several important things:

• True joy and hope have little, if anything, to do with your status in life or what you have.
• There are MANY giving people in this world, despite the bad economy and problems that exist in our culture.  Our media culture leaves us thinking we are going to hell in a hand basket.
• The gift of one’s time and heart often means much more than giving money or possessions.
• Santa transcends cultures and time.
• Never underestimate the power of serving others, even in the smallest of ways.
• Every parent delights in seeing their child smile.

Santa w/Children at Lawrenceville Kiwanis Event 12/10/2011

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