As we sat in the congested holiday traffic near our local Target, surrounded by the incessant honking and impatience of fellow drivers, I took a moment to sip my warm, spiced latte. My friend Sarah, sitting beside me, sighed and pointed out a scene unfolding nearby.
“Look at that,” she said. “Something’s going on over there.”
Indeed, something was happening at the nearby Extended Stay motel. A cluster of police cars had gathered, their lights flashing in a chaotic display.
“That doesn’t seem good,” I commented, feeling stuck at the red light as it changed again without us moving.
In our quiet neighborhood, major incidents are rare, so it’s often hard to gauge whether such a police presence indicates a serious crime or a minor issue.
Then, my gaze fell upon a man in the midst of the flashing lights. He was tall and built, holding a small, wide-eyed child in his arms. In his other hand, he clutched a trash bag filled with clothing.
“Oh no,” I whispered to myself.
Having previously worked as a property manager for low-income housing, I had witnessed numerous evictions. I’d seen families, distraught and desperate, being escorted from their homes. The heart-wrenching cries and pleas for mercy always lingered in my mind. But this scene struck me differently.
This man stood silently, devoid of emotion, as he faced the police. Instead of anger or despair, he seemed to accept his fate with a detached resignation. The little girl nestled into her father’s chest, as if he could shield her from the harsh reality of their situation.
As we finally drove past the scene, I tried to focus on our holiday plans: shopping, decorating, and preparing festive treats. Yet, a heavy cloud loomed over my heart, the weight of that father’s blank stare and the fear of his child etched in my memory.
I couldn’t shake the thought of how much more painful such a moment must feel during what is typically a joyous time. I wanted to erase the image of that father holding his daughter tightly, shielding her from the world, but it felt impossible.
What does Christmas truly represent? Is it merely a season of gifts, laughter, and holiday cheer? I realized that my heart was burdened by the reminder of another family in need—a child shivering in the cold, a mother searching for warmth and shelter.
As I reflected on the eviction, I felt overwhelmed with shame. I had no room for this family in my life—neither in my home nor in my heart. The realization stung deeply, and I found myself searching for ways to help, despite my limited resources. I knew that many homeless individuals become invisible, often difficult to locate or assist.
Almost a week has passed since that day, and I’ve kept this family in my thoughts and prayers. While it’s unlikely I can directly rectify my inaction, I am determined to change my approach moving forward.
I will celebrate the holiday season with joy and warmth, but I also commit to recognizing and addressing the needs of those less fortunate. I hope to open my heart—and my wallet—to those who require help. I pray that fear and pride won’t hinder my ability to take action.
Above all, I aspire to remove the “No Vacancy” sign from my heart. If I do not make room for those in need, I risk becoming as indifferent as the innkeeper who turned away Mary and Joseph.
In this season of giving, let us remember to extend our compassion beyond ourselves and embrace those in need. If you’re seeking further insightful resources on home insemination and pregnancy, check out this excellent resource at American Pregnancy or consider the comprehensive options available at Make a Mom.
Summary: This holiday season, it’s crucial to reflect on the plight of those less fortunate. Observing the eviction of a family during a time typically filled with joy serves as a reminder of our shared humanity. As we celebrate, let us open our hearts and extend our compassion to those in need.