As we enter the busy and sometimes over-focused Christmas and Hanukkah seasons, we offer these thoughts for consideration.
Holidays can be times of joy and togetherness, yet it is so important to remember that not everyone is looking forward to the holidays. Some people are not surrounded by wonderful families. Some people are struggling during this season and may be overcome with great sadness. Some are remembering the loved ones who are no longer with us. For many, it is their first Christmas or Hanukkah without a particular loved one, and many others lost loved ones at this time of year. In fact, many people have no one to spend these times with and must endure painful loneliness.
Some are facing new challenges among family members — divided by different faiths, political beliefs, or lifestyles. The election has created schisms, hard feelings, and hurt. Some are healing. Regardless of what position or belief, we all need caring, and loving thoughts and actions now.
Let us dedicate time to support all those who are experiencing personal or family troubles, health struggles, employment issues; those missing lost loved ones, facing financial stress or worries of any kind.
Reach out: we all need to know someone cares. We are stronger than our differences; we can carry more weight together than any one person can hold at a time.
Do this for a friend, an acquaintance, a co-worker, a service person. Do it for a stranger… because nobody is immune to the very human need for love, kindness, and compassion.
Make this truly the season of giving.
