What a busy, busy holiday season it has been. I don't know about you but it seems like November and December have gone by in warp speed. I still have most of my holiday shopping to do!
But the one thing I love about this time of year is the cheer that is in the air. People seem to be happier. Excited even. I hear well wishes in the halls more often and see smiling faces. And I know those baked goodies hit the spot for a lot of people.
So with all this holiday cheer, I'd like to ask you to share it with a friend, a co-worker, your pet, a stranger...anyone that you see needing a kind reminder that life will get better and that they are not alone. Anything is helpful - a warm hug, holding the door for a person who is burdened with Christmas packages, a donation to the food bank, volunteering one hour of your time to give presents to kiddos, even cleaning out your closet and donating warm sweaters to our thrift shop or local shelter.
Why choose community service this holiday season? Because it is a gift that keeps on giving. When I was about 8 or 9 my parents dressed up as Mr. and Mrs. Clause for a local charity. Having a fluffy white beard and a jolly laugh, my father fit the part to a tee. My sister and I were the elf's who assisted the Christmas duo in giving away gifts. At the time, I was a bit young to recognize the impact this had, but now upon reflection I am truly grateful that my parents decided to do this AND bring us kids along. What amazing gift they gave the community and to us. It was extremely powerful to see how the children reacted - happy faces all around. They had a blast telling Santa what they wanted for Christmas. And they even pulled his beard to see if it was real (Ouch- Sorry pops!). So this year, pass on the holiday cheer with a gift of your time and support.
Below is a link to organizations that
First Central partners with to help our community and impact social change. We encourage you to spread the holiday cheer by serving our community (what a great new family tradition that could be!).
http://www.firstcentral.org/ministries/outreach.shtml Happy Holidays!
Posted by Hanna W.
Posts
