Kevin Laliberte
Editor, Smoky River Express

There’s something purely magical about the holiday season which tends to bring out the best in people. Regardless of whether we know it or not, it’s safe to say that we’ve all been conditioned since birth to treat and view the Christmas season as something indeed special. And when we’re mature enough to start watching the people around us, we immediately begin to recognize that the holiday season transcends well beyond the excitement of opening gifts beneath the tree on Christmas morning. It’s the sights and sounds of the season, spending quality time with family and friends, and sharing in the spirit of giving which ultimately makes the holidays so unique and comforting. People, in general, seem a little lighter on their feet around the holiday season, in addition to being more cheerful and compassionate to one another in their day-to-day routines. This contagious spirit is woven right into Christmas and each of us through our progressive memories of past holidays, which bring out the best in all of us. It comes to us in many forms, from the traditional sparkling holiday lights, Christmas trees, wreathes and other festive decorations to the countless community events (including concerts, dinners and choir performances) – all of which serve as reminders to us just how special this time of the year is. It’s also important to point out that Christmas can have the exact opposite effect on many others in our community. For many of the region’s less fortunate families the holiday season – recognized as the most wonderful time of the year – can be the most stressful time of the year in terms of trying to make ends meet. Virtually every community, including those in the Smoky River region, have active channels available for support in the form of donating non-perishable food items, clothing, and gifts to assist individuals and families in need. Christmas hamper food drives are now in the final stages here in the region as Smoky River Family & Community Support Services prepares this week to put the finishing touches on its annual Christmas hamper program drive. Please pledge your support to this very worthwhile cause by making a generous contribution in support of those less fortunate. While you’re at it think about what you can do make a positive difference in our respective communities this holiday season. Giving isn’t always necessarily about money or the things it can buy; it’s often about giving something back by being directly involved in your respective communities. Just take a look around you and you’ll find virtually endless opportunities in terms of ways we can all reach out and help others by giving of ourselves. This can be achieved in a number of ways, ranging from spending time with our seniors, to pitching in at holiday social functions or helping a neighbour shovel their sidewalk or driveway. Hospitals and nursing homes always need volunteers, and that need becomes more pressing during the holidays when the staff is slim. Most nursing homes always have few elderly residents who have outlived friends and family and have no one to bring a small gift or brighten up their day by reading, talking or playing a game of cards. Try it and I guarantee you’ll be pleasantly surprised just how contagious the spirit of giving can be.

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