‘Tis the Season

This year has flown by and before we know it, 2008 will be upon us. The holidays are rapidly approaching with Thanksgiving in just a few days. As we think about the holiday season and what it means to us, I would like to remind people to just be kind to one another. During the holiday season, people are often troubled over money, loved ones overseas and in the military, family matters and loss. Some are not in the best of spirits which may reflect in attitudes and behaviors. Remember that their reactions are not personally directed to you, but at the situation. We often lose site of the fact that we do not know what is going on in their life at that time. Showing a bit of kindness such as holding a door open, smiling or offering a hug could mean the world to them.

I had the pleasure of listening to a fabulous speaker by the name of Ann Schatz at an organizational meeting last week. She emphasized the true spirit of kindness and reminded us that even the simple things mean a lot. As we go through our day, we need to remember the basics of doing good deeds and lending a helping hand when needed. It may seem very small, but even the smallest token or assistance could mean the world to someone else.

In the words of Ettiene De Grellet: “I expect to pass through this world but once; any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

For more information and ideas on acts of kindness, go to http://www.actsofkindness.org

Peace