This holiday season I ask that we dig deep and identify each and every thing we are thankful for. If you can’t find where to start, start with air conditioning and then let it flow from there. We are so fortunate, both individually and as a community.

It only takes one trip to serve at a homeless shelter to begin the thanksgiving process. Interestingly enough, those staying at the shelter are extremely polite and thankful – thankful for a shower, clean underwear, a hot meal, and a bed to sleep in.

These folks are people just like you and me, but they have suffered enormous consequences for sometimes just one bad decision, inadequate parenting, a terrible divorce, or a serious illness. Just one of those things can cause the house of cards to fall, piece by piece.

Taking your age-appropriate child with you to serve the homeless will wipe that entitled look right off their face, too.

In last week's Letters to the Editor, David Iverson thanked the community for its support of the Extended Hands Food Bank. Mr. Iverson is thankful – thankful for those who acknowledge that there is a need in this community for a food bank and for those who are willing to put forth action to prove it.

If you would like to serve with action or funds, ask any local church for guidance. You can also contact David Iverson directly at the Extended Hands Food Bank, (480) 837-0303, or go online to Matthew 25 Project at http://www.matthew25az.org/. Thank you.