When I was 16 I was the only active member in my single parent household.

One “Mutual” night I saw the Laurels putting together Christmas packages for the needy. One of the Laurels was in my mind the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. I wished I had the courage to talk her but I was very shy.

Later that night the doorbell rang and I opened the door to find one of the packages on our doorstep.

I knew we were poor as it was our everyday reality. As a sensitive kid I did not want others to know. Especially a certain Laurel. The intentions were altruistic and in the spirit of the season…. They were also needed and appreciated.