Pain for a Purpose
By Jim Morris
Today, I had a long, sometimes painful, but extremely rewarding completion of the California International Marathon.
My mind was comforted during the run by thoughts of Nick, a recent graduate of the Mission, who continues his fantastic recovery.
There are many others in need; seemingly more every day. Heading to almost any major urban street corner or freeway underpass is all the evidence one needs to know we are a long way to solving the homeless problem.
The most satisfying part was thinking about how several in our community stepped up to help the Union Gospel Mission Sacramento. The Mission has been a beacon for Sacramento’s homeless for a half century; providing food, shelter, faith and hope.
We raised nearly $2,000, which will provide more than 1,000 meals to the Mission. 
My sincere thanks go to California rice farmers and millers, Tracy Titus and Eric Grotenhuis of Page Design Group, Libby Hall of Unearth Campaigns, Dick and Johanne Owens, Vincent and Liz Johnson, Julie Reinhardt at Jack Nadel, Tony Bell, Hally Baker of Butterfly Garden Preschool, Ann Burris, Cynthia Daley, Steve Beckley and Keli Gwyn for their generous support.
During this holiday season, I hope we all take a quick moment from our busyness to count our blessings and seek to make a positive impact on those around us.
The billboards, television ads and the like beckon us to indulge in excess, while there’s a much quieter plea for help coming from those with almost nothing to their name.
Here’s what I’d do differently, I’d
Love like I’m not scared
Give when it’s not fair
Live life for another
Take time for a brother
Fight for the weak ones
Speak out for freedom
Find faith in the battle
Stand Tall
Lyrics from musical group, For King and Country
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons.