The weekend before Thanksgiving San Felipe teens met to make 20 baskets for those in need in Cameron Park. Before going out to deliver the baskets we practiced by doing simple role playing. I played an older woman. When I answered the door I looked surprised to see a group of young people. Then once they explained who they were and what they had for me I acted so touched that I cried. The teens laughed and said, "Sister Sharon, no one is going to cry." I assured them that they need to be prepared for tears.

Four groups set out with names and addresses to deliver baskets to. Each group had a story to tell when they returned. The group that I accompanied had the following experience.

One of the addresses we were looking turned out to be a nice little house. It sat across from an apartment that was unkempt and had kids roaming about outside while the adults sat in the doorway watching. One of the teens said, "I think we should give the basket to those people over there...they look like they need it." But I suggested we stick with the address and Sandra, Dalia, and Karina agreed. When we knocked on the door and older woman answered. She invited us in and we introduced ourselves and presented her with her basket. She was very moved and began to cry. The woman told us that she had no food to eat and had called her sister the night before to ask for some help. Her sister had brought her enough for a meal, which she was cooking when we arrived. She had invited two of the neighbor's children over to share the meal with her. The two boys looked on as we prayed and the woman gave thanks to God for all the things He had given her. When we left the home Sandra said, "We did the right thing by giving the basket to her...she really needed it." We all agreed with her and talked about how we can't always judge needs by what we see on the outside.

In our time of reflection the youth shared how touched they were by the many needs of the people in their community. They were also touched by their gratitude and generosity.

I will always thank the Lord;

I will never stop praising him.

I will praise him for what he has done;

may all who are oppressed listen and be glad.

Psalm 34:1-2