Chips

Shopping at Cid's grocery store last night, I informed the cashier I didn't need a bag for my purchases. With that she handed me a white poker chip.

I asked what it was for. She told me I could choose a can from the shelves of cans by the front door. Each one labeled and decorated for a local non-profit.

I did so, choosing the food pantry of St. James Episcopal Church. I dropped my chip in the slot and then stopped to look at the variety of groups who are helping others--helping people and helping animals as well.

Each chip is worth 10 cents. Not a lot. But those 10 cents add up over the course of a day, a week, a month.

I read this morning that Taos has 250 non profit organizations. That seems like a lot for this small community.

Taos is not alone. Everywhere their is hunger and need. And everywhere there are non-profit groups who respond to the needs of our neighbors and friends, maybe even more importantly, to strangers.

I'm thoughtful about the power of a single white poker chip.

And, yes, I walked a labyrinth. And are cheese enchiladas.