Doing something for someone who can never repay you

John Wooden once said, "You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."

That is something to think on.... and act on.

Have you ever had someone do something for you just because? Maybe they helped you do yard work, sent a card, a small gift.... It leaves a lasting impact, a memory, a feeling of gratitude we can never forget. It makes us feel special when someone shows us how much they care.

Now what if someone you DIDN'T know did something for you because they wanted to brighten your day?

As my mom relaxes for the evening, she enjoys making necklaces for children she has never met. She gives them to me to deliver on missions trips to children who are living in poverty all over the world. Although my mom loves making the necklaces, I think I get to enjoy the best part.... seeing the smiles on all those little faces and receiving the hugs and kisses. It is amazing how a simple, thoughtful gift can brighten the days of a child and those around them.

If you would like to do something like this, be prepared... The joy you receive out of doing something for someone else will be beyond your imagination.

Simply gather the supplies needed below, use your creativity and make bracelets or necklaces or bookmarks..... then contact a local church and let them know you would like to give these gifts to community, national, or international outreach. You may even want to be sure to be there when they are shared with others!!

Supplies needed:

• Elastic cording
• Pony Beads (or other plastic or wooden beads)
• Scissors

Directions (for bracelets):

• Cut a 7" piece of cording
• Tie 1 bead to the end (single knot) about an inch from the end (this helps beads stay on cord)
• String beads about an inch away from the opposite end
• Untie the bead and tie the ends of the cord together (triple knot)
• Trim loose ends

Below is photo of bracelets made during a recent family get-together. While I visited my niece, nephew and friend, we put together bracelets for children as we chit chatted and got caught up on what was going on in our lives. We had SO much fun laughing and enjoying each other's creativity!

Bracelets made with "'Pony Beads" and other plastic beads

Enjoy your time making these fun gifts... and know you are making a difference in the lives of others.