Last month, The Little Village Solidarity Network, a local organization here in Chicago, collected basic items needed by the Central American refugees traveling north in the migrant caravan. Several sites in the city opened their doors to compassionate Chicagoans who wanted to do something to show support for our desperate fellow humans marching towards our border.

Moved by the call to action, I went to Aldi and stocked up on diapers and maxi pads, two items specifically requested. Simple consumer goods must be hard to come by on a long trek away from home. I can’t imagine how hard a trip like that must be, especially with my children in tow. But, I know that I would do the same if my life and livelihood were in jeopardy…and I know that all my ancestors were immigrants who were also seeking better lives for themselves and their families.

At the drop off site we were invited to make cards to wish the refugees well on their journeys. So, from the warmth of our car, Evie, Vivian and I used our best Spanish to craft well wishes and warm thoughts. The girls carefully decorated their notes, asking questions as they worked. “Why do these people want to come to our country?” “What happens to their old house?” “Where do they go when they get here?” I told them that some kids seeking asylum are taken away from their parents when they arrive at our border, and they pondered that thought for a while.

I reminded them how lucky they are to live in the United States.

Do I know if the diapers and maxi pads we dropped off ever made it to the refugees? No. But, I do know that my kids saw me doing something to help. Hopefully, they will carry this lesson with them on their own journey through life and offer a helping hand to those in need. My kids know they belong to a family that will do something when anything will help…

…especially at Christmas time.

Now, said the shepherd boy to the mighty king
Do you know what I know
In your palace warm, mighty king
Do you know what I know
A child, a child, shivers in the cold
Let us bring him silver and gold