Another Christmas has come and gone, and now we look toward the new year. I have to say, Christmas is my favorite time of the year. People come together to help one another and make sure they have gifts for children, warm clothes and food on the table. Families make the effort to volunteer their time to those in need and spend time with loved ones they may not see throughout the year.
It’s always so nice to see the effort that people put into making sure everyone has a happy holiday. As New Years Eve approaches, we begin to think about new years resolutions. We all start those diets, begin working out, tighten our belts budget wise and try to quit those vices we love. We may succeed, or we may not, but the thing I find interesting is that most resolutions we make are for ourselves. After an entire season of giving, we turn right back to ‘me’ statements.
Whatever time and energy we put into making the world a better over Christmas time goes directly back onto the shelf until next Christmas. I’m not saying that everyone does this, but I am always amazed with the generosity of everyone at Christmas, and then wonder what happens to that generosity after the clock strikes midnight and we begin the new year.
I propose that everyone try to keep the Christmas spirit all year long. Maybe once a month donate to your local food bank, volunteer your time, or go out of your way to spend time with a loved one. You don’t have to do a lot, but just something small. Let’s try to keep the Christmas spirit all year long.
I’ve always been quite lucky that I have a close knit family that is always there for each other. Our special events are busy with great grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. We all pull together to make sure everyone is supported. I am blessed to have such a wonderful family. Not everyone is so lucky. If you can make the effort throughout the year, try to spend time with your family. Give them a call, invite them for dinner, show them you are thinking of them. Family may be friends if you don’t have any family who you are close with.
Earlier this month, I talked about Ways To Give during the holiday season. I will be striving to do one of these things each month with my family. Things like giving a can or two to the food bank won’t put a large hole in your pocket, but will definitely help those who need it. There are lots of places you can volunteer throughout the year too. Places like long term care centers and hospitals are always looking for help.
There are lots of other ways to keep the Christmas spirit all year long, but those were just a couple easy ones you can try. Let’s try to make the new year about others. I’m not saying don’t make those ‘me’ resolutions, but try to include at least one resolution that gives back to those who need it.
Happy New Year!!