We all have light-bulb moments when information is processed in our minds that may have been there all along but suddenly everything comes together or makes sense. One of those moments for me was in a religion class years ago. The subject was “How to Pray.” It seemed simple enough but what I learned was life changing.

Usually, prayer is quiet, reflective and sometimes with passion for the things that are important to us. It is also counting our blessings and saying thank you. The revelation for me that day was simply hearing that “helping others is a form of prayer.”  That’s it. So simple, but so profound.

As we enter this holiday season, there will be a number of ways we can help others. The most common ways are through donations or volunteer work.

This year, the Natchez Board of Realtors, with the help of Supermarket Operations, is sponsoring a food drive that will support our local Stewpot in their mission to feed those who otherwise would not have daily meals.

There will be a food drop-off area close to the front door in each of the following stores: Natchez Market on John R. Junkin Drive, Natchez Market 2 on U.S. 61 North, and Southside Market on Seargent S. Prentiss Drive. These collections will run through the holidays.

All donations are appreciated, and no donation is too small or too large.

According to Stewpot Director Louis Gunning, the Stewpot serves approximately 300 meals per day, 365 days a year.

About 200 of these meals are delivered by volunteers to shut-ins. Recipients include our elderly, handicapped, unemployed and those suffering from prolonged illnesses.  This is a huge undertaking and can only be realized through the generosity of our community. They also need volunteers and accept monetary donations. You can contact the Stewpot at 601-442-9413 or 601-442-2270 after hours. Monetary donations can be mailed to Natchez Community Stewpot, P.O.Box 298, Natchez, MS 39121.

It really takes very little effort to make a difference in someone’s life. Thank you in advance for helping us in our efforts to see that no one in our community goes hungry this season.

Have you prayed today?

Jackie Smith is the president of the Natchez Board of Realtors.