It wouldn’t be the holidays without those who keep the lights on.
It’s the Saturday before Christmas and we have 4 shopping days left to get everything found, wrapped and delivered to our friends and family. While we are rushing around putting the last details together and trying to decide how to juggle gatherings with families, there are others out doing jobs to keep our homes and lives safe and comfortable.
I could spend a bunch of time writing about the hardships and tragedies that are around us. I am pretty sure we are all aware of what is going on. While we sit in our homes with family and friends, let’s try to remember that there are people who are working very hard to make sure that the lights come on. Tow drivers assisting drivers in distress, plow truck drivers cleaning roads, Law enforcement out patrolling the highways, volunteers feeding the homeless; EMTs, nurses, and doctors leaving homes and hot meals to put people back together and get them on their feet.
The world must keep spinning and while we stop for a moment for the Menorah, the baby, the Kinara, burning the Yule; let’s consider Boxing day. Boxing day is traditionally a holiday dedicated to giving gifts to the poor or serving those in need but; it is also a day to recognize those who work in services. A holiday to remember people who help keep our daily lives spinning. Tuesday morning, we will put out our trash because it isn’t Christmas; yet. DOT workers will still be out working on the highways because again, it isn’t Christmas yet. Retailers are in the stores; stocking shelves, locating orders, waiting on shoppers and smiling while trying to think of their own “to do” lists. Restaurants are pour coffee, slinging food, waiting tables, cleaning dishes and all on achy feet so that you can rush out again.
When everything is said and done, the gifts unwrapped and you are sated with good food and company; remember that the end of the year is coming and you might need a tax write off. Donations to support nonprofits go a long way to keep things moving as well. While tips may not be deductible, good will that is generated from them can go a long way for you but especially for them. This time of year is when we all look for the light. Whether it is the guiding star, the memory of a oil lamp that stayed for 8 days, a log that holds the hope for sunrise on the shortest day of the year; let’s help each other lighten the load. Isn’t that what those who are working in the services are doing for us? The stylist who cuts our hair, the mechanic that services our car, the house keeper who mops our floors, the people who help care for our pets.
We are able to do what we do, because of the help of others. Shine some light there too. Thank you for helping my world move. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays.
P.S. This is just 2, food banks have listings in your area as do other non-profits.