As that most wonderful time of the year quickly approaches, I am reminded that there is no place quite like home for the holidays.
I think of the many traditions, elaborate feasts, gift-giving and time spent with loved ones far and near. My own family enjoys gathering together for a giant breakfast before settling in to enjoy the Macy’s parade each year.
Above all, we simply come together and truly appreciate the time that we don’t usually have with one another. This is a blessing.
Sadly, many within our community aren’t afforded the same blessings during the holiday season. For many, there is no family, no tasty feasts, no gifts in pretty packages with bows.
The joyfulness of the season is stolen from them, replaced by loneliness, stress, and all too often, despair. Times are difficult within our nation nowadays. A dollar doesn’t go nearly as far as it once did. Inflation has driven the prices of goods and services through the roof.
There isn’t enough affordable housing. Utility costs are an ever-increasing burden upon us all. Travel is now a luxury that few can even afford. Never have these woes been felt more deeply than they are during the holidays.
Be of good cheer! There is a glimmer of hope amidst it all, and that hope is you! There is no season more perfect for giving back and for the blessed to become a blessing.
This is the season to lay aside our judgments, our selfishness, and come together as a community to love our neighbors. You may ask, what can I possibly do?
The answer is simple, just show up.
Show up at a nursing home or senior center and spend some time appreciating your elders. Listen to them, hold their hand, and alleviate some of their loneliness.
They have a treasure trove of experiences to share with us all. Show up at your local food pantry or community center and volunteer your time serving those in need.
Buy a toy and donate it to Share Your Christmas. Purchase a few extra food items the next time you’re at the grocery store and donate them to a free-standing pantry within our community.
There is much that can be done when we are willing and take the time.
We are fortunate to reside in a county that cares and offers a variety of programs to assist those in need. As you go about your usual holiday activities, I encourage you to think beyond yourselves and your own families.
Be a blessing and a reminder to those less fortunate that, when it comes to the holidays, there’s no place quite like Barry County to call home.
Kimberly Healey works in homeless correlation, is on the SWMO ReStore & Builds Board and is on the Share Your Christmas Board. She may be reached at Kimberlyhealey9@gmail.com.
