As I sat on a line waiting to fill my car up with gas, I could not help but think of all those completely devastated by Hurricane Sandy. My heart aches for those who lost their lives and homes. I watch the destruction on television and feel sick.

I am truly fortunate - my family is safe and I have power, which even made me feel a bit guilty because so many were, and still remain, without. I am eager to help others who truly need it due to this devastating storm. I also want my children to get involved.

So, I took my almost 5 year old and 3 year old to Target yesterday. I explained that we are not shopping for us, but we are going to shop for people who can’t be in their homes right now. I was careful with what I said because I don’t want to scare my young children. When we went to Target and they helped select some warm clothes and necessities for children who need them. Of course they tried to get things for themselves too, but I really stressed the importance that today we were shopping for others. I did get them a pack of gum on our way out, which in this house is quite the reward! I thanked my children for being good helpers and told them that there were a lot of children that would smile because of them.

I want my children to be kind and appreciative, let's not forget to teach our youngsters that people are more important than things. We need to keep in mind they emulate us, so let’s teach them to be good citizens and remember it starts with us. Donate to a cause, volunteer, or help a friend who may not have a place to go, don't let this hurricane take away our kindness, after all it's one of the most important qualities a person can have.

Rebecca Schleifer November 05, 2012

Tags: teaching charity  donate  teachable moment