Every year I ask my students to write an essay about the ONE thing they want for Christmas.

[iemitsu]

35. Dear proud2Blibkansan, thank you for sharing your sad and heartwarming Christmas story.

I am constantly struck by the stories of hardship experienced by many of my students. It reminds me that I have nothing to complain about.
I knew how your story would end because you are a teacher. Teachers are wonderful resources, they can find answers and solutions to problems. I knew that if you could not find a way to get the power turned back on, through the community, you would have paid the bill yourself. Christmas day (or any day for that matter) without electricity or food, and nine children in the home, would have been very difficult for the mom/aunt. Your intervention that Christmas made the day wonderful for the whole family, not just your student.
I'll bet they all remember that Christmas as the best one ever.
You did not say whether or not you had your own children at home that year but if you did, I'd bet they remember that as a special Christmas too.
I know how one feels when they can provide that kind of help to someone in need. There is nothing quite like it.
I hope you had a very Merry Christmas and that your new year will be the best one ever.