It’s Holiday Time

Holiday Message
If we all could take a minute away from personal attacks, maybe we could focus…even for a second…on something much more important.
I would like to take this time, to focus on something that stirs a personal passion during the Christmas holidays each year.
It isn’t a unique place to visit or an attraction to experience. This something carries with it its own uniqueness and special experience through the act of doing.
At times it is difficult to realize, but we all have a lot to be thankful for each year. And this is definitely the season to be thankful.
So while we ponder and prepare for trips to family and friends across the country and elsewhere during this holiday season, lets not forget those for whom the holidays may be just another day on the calendar, another day to survive, another day without friends and family near.
It is difficult for many of us to believe that in this land of abundance there can be people suffering the pains of hunger or people freezing for lack of a roof or people lonely because they have not or cannot be together with family or friends.
This wonderful country has found remarkable answers for many crises, has diligently worked to right many wrongs and has provided much sought after freedom for its people and others far and beyond our borders.
However, the answer to hunger, homelessness and loneliness for many in this country is still elusive.
I have found Americans to be generous and caring people.
During this long holiday season, if you can, please try to find a way to take an extra step of kindness. Donate to a food pantry; help out a homeless shelter…visit someone who you know will be alone at this time or hold a family member just a bit closer.
As much as you will helping others in ways far beyond your greatest expectations, you will truly be helping yourself in the knowledge that you made an important difference for someone.
You see, a little generosity and caring for others actually helps everyone.
And, as my Dad directed me as a young boy, “if you see someone without a smile….give ‘em one of yours”!