Yesterday my boys and I distributed meals and gifts for elderly folks on the East Side, in a program sponsored by the Salvation Army (note line of others preparing to do same).  The recipients are people immersed in poverty: none of them have cars, many are disabled, the neighborhoods often wicked.  But each year it’s a big deal to them when we show up, bringing things that make their lives a little easier–food, then practical gifts that we provide.

I’ve made a practice of this since the boys were 7 and 9, so that each Christmas after they opened their gifts, we always headed downtown.  It helps them keep things in perspective, and keeps material excess at a sane distance.  But god, where did they get those ugly freakin hats?