STAFF EDITORIAL
It’s that time of year again. We’re all busy thinking about presents, glitter, a Christmas tree or a menorah. But most of us also use the holiday season to think about those who are not having such a great time. We use the holidays as a time to give back.
Northwood clubs and organizations have been out in full force this giving season, from the blood drive, to the Student Council canned food drive, to the Key Club gifts for teens collection.
Most of us at Northwood are getting into the charitable spirit. But there are probably some of you who aren’t. You are the kind of person who says, “Why should I?” when asked to help out. We all get a little caught up in the commercial aspects of the holidays; perhaps it is the reason we give so much more during the season—so that we remember that presents aren’t the most important things in the world.
So there might be a lot of you who are probably more focused on getting presents than giving them, and if it doesn’t benefit you, you aren’t interested. But here’s the thing: giving to other people does help you. Skeptical? Keep reading.
It makes you feel good. Giving to a cause makes us feel like we are a part of something greater than ourselves. It gives us a sense of purpose and direction. It also helps us feel grateful, because we think about how lucky we are to have enough blood to give away, or enough food to eat that we can give some to someone else. It can even help ease our guilt—we have all done things that we are ashamed of, but giving is something to be proud of.
It keeps us informed. When we donate to a cause, we learn more about it. You might not have known about the CORA food pantry until you donated cans last week. Maybe you didn’t know how many people need blood transfusions until you thought about giving blood for the blood drive.
People will like you more. Did you notice the respectful nods people gave to students with the red bandage on their arm from giving blood last week? It’s because everybody likes someone who gives. It makes you seem worldly and compassionate.
Maybe someday you will need help with something, but the organizations that could help you have closed their doors due to lack of funding. It’s a dramatic example, but it’s also entirely possible. That’s why giving blood and organ donations are so important—you never know when it could be you who needs a transfusion or a kidney.
And just think, all those benefits for bringing in a can of green beans.