Dan Rather posted on Facebook this week, “For many, this season is ‘the most wonderful time of the year.’ But for those struggling with loneliness, illness, economic hardship, the loss of a loved one, and other challenges, this time can be very difficult. So please reach out in kindness to those in need of help and comfort.”
This sentiment really hit home for me. During the holidays, it is easy to get caught up in the decorations, presents, and parties. It is common to overeat, overdrink and overspend. It is tradition to let down our hair with co-workers and take a load off with family. Sometimes though, the revelry is enjoyed without taking time to think about those who may not be able to celebrate good health or good fortune this year; those who may be mourning or suffering or facing other challenges. So this holiday season, as Mr. Rather suggests, take some time to extend kindness and holiday cheer to others in whatever way you can – with a smile and kind word, with your time through volunteering, or with a donation to a cause you find worthy This holiday season, eat, drink, be merry and spread the holiday cheer.