Definition:

Service is doing something nice or helpful for someone else.

Summary:
Even though James Otis Petway and his mother live in poverty, they generously decide to help an even less fortunate family in their neighborhood. As Mama makes an apron out of the only nice thing they have, a tablecloth, James ponders what he can contribute. His Mama reminds him that what really matters is giving something from the heart. James makes a book for Sarah, whose possessions were burned in the fire that destroyed their home. James’s book, “From My Heart to Your Heart”makes Sarah feel happy, in spite of all her losses.  James and his mother also feel happy because their gifts were appreciated. 

Lesson Objectives:

1. Students will be more likely to value homemade gifts that are crafted from the heart. 
2. Teachers can do a class crafts project, making something for those who are in need of a gift from the heart, a family member, seniors, veterans, children’s hospital patients, etc. 

Guiding Questions: 

1. What does “the power of kindness” mean to you? 
2. The Petway family had some setbacks. What happened that made life more difficult? 
3. What holiday prompted the idea of delivering “love boxes” to families in the community? How do you celebrate that holiday? 
4. What is the most important thing to think about when considering a gift for someone? 
5. Why does James hesitate about giving a gift to Sarah? What were some of the ideas he had? 
6. Mama made something for Sarah’s mom. What was it and why was it so special? 
7.  Creating “love boxes” was a yearly service arranged by the church this family attended. Would you like to give or get a “love box”? 
8. There’s a saying, “what you give out comes back.” Did this happen to James and his Mama? Explain. 
9. Have you ever given a gift you made to someone? What did you make and how did you feel about giving it? 
10. Think of someone who might appreciate a gift from you, create it, and give it.