This year has been so tough, and I’m thrilled to see that neighbors real and virtual are responding by getting into the holiday spirit early. No, I don’t celebrate Christmas, but I love to see your lights on my evening walks! I’m savoring your photos of trees and wreaths on social media! And come Dec. 10 – the first night of Chanukah – I’ll do my best to reciprocate with photos (maybe a video) of the candles on my family menorah.
But today is a different holiday tradition, a newer one: Giving Tuesday. This year has been so difficult for all of us that it’s easy to forget those who may have started with less, those whose lands and livelihoods have been utterly ravaged by natural disasters, or whose livelihoods depend on the social interaction that usually ramps up right about now. Not to mention the various groups who are always struggling, from animal rescue groups to food pantries.
You don’t have to give a lot. Most of us are making do with less. But even a small gift can go a long way – especially today, when so many donations are being matched. And the feeling of connection, of community, in this time of enforced separation? That’s priceless.
Be well, my friends!