It is just a few days until Christmas day.

This is a time when a special atmosphere fills the air, bringing people together in a shared sense of joy and unity. As this magical time unfolds, I am lead to contemplate: What exactly is it about Christmas, just around the corner, that captures our hearts?

We all feel a deep connection to our cherished traditions, shared moments with family, and the unique binding spirit of generosity that defines this festive season.

My special reflections about Christmas are composed of a mosaic of memories that are brought to mind by simple things. Don’t we all enjoy listening to our favorite Christmas carols and smelling the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg in freshly baked cookies and spiced cider?

During my childhood our family used to display a very tall freshly cut Douglas Fir Christmas tree. We genuinely drove the family station wagon up to the mountains to get the tree each year and brought it home tied to the top of the car.

One of my favorite things to do was to nestle on the rug beneath the tree with my gaze fixed upward, comforted and soothed by the soft glow of those old-fashioned ceramic C7 lights that bathed the room in a warm embrace. The tree was adorned with lots of long silver tinsel strands. In those days, you could never have too much tinsel on the tree.

As I looked up through the limbs and smelled the fresh evergreen boughs, I was most intrigued by a particular fondness for the green color lights. Whenever I catch a glimpse of the green glow of Christmas lights, it takes me right back there to those moments when I felt secure and safe and magical.

Isn’t it a great component of the nostalgia, to have memories free of worry? How wonderful to have the omission of responsibilities to tarnish the warmth of the glowing lights and dreamy flowing tinsel.

As adults, of course, reality does not allow us to escape our responsibilities. Lots of people are struggling to take care of their basic household needs. How can I spread generosity to those who are not able to feel warm, secure and nourished, but instead are feeling stressed and worried this season?

There are simple yet profound ways to reach out to those facing difficulties during the holidays. Neighbors and friends around you may be experiencing loneliness, financial strain, or health concerns.

I suggest you consider some options to extend the green light of comfort to others. Small gestures can make a significant impact. I believe if you take time to make an effort that you will receive joy in return.

You can send a simple message. A heartfelt message can go a long way. Take a moment to send a text, email, or handwritten note expressing your care and well-wishes. Acknowledge the challenges of the recipient and let them know you are thinking of them.

Try sharing a meal or a treat. Prepare a little extra when cooking or baking and share a meal or some festive treats with someone who might be facing financial difficulties. A homemade gesture can bring comfort during a time that may be challenging.

Organize a virtual gathering through a video call. Whether it’s a virtual holiday party, a game night, or a simple chat, it can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of connection.

The love language for many is the gift of a helping hand. Identify someone’s specific needs and offer practical help. Whether it is grocery shopping, running errands, or assisting with household tasks, these gestures can be especially meaningful for those facing health concerns or limitations.

Sometimes, a listening ear can be the most powerful gift. Offer your time to listen without judgment. Allow a person to share their thoughts and feelings. Knowing that someone cares can transform a gloomy mood into a hopeful one.

Share the joy of Jesus to help others deal with their pain and troubled days. At Christmas, we celebrate not just the birth of a baby in Bethlehem, but the arrival of hope for all mankind.

Accompaniment to the life of Jesus is a divine promise that the light of love, peace, and salvation has entered our world, illuminating the path to a brighter tomorrow.

Janet Mills is the director of Cassville Pantry, located at 800 W. 10th St. in Cassville. She may be reached at cassvillepantry@gmail.com or 417 846-7871.