Holiday spirit: Nothing makes Christmas brighter than sharing with others

There is something about Christmas.

Even as we scurry about trying to get this done and that wrapped, there is a spirit of giving that still manages to overcome the commercial pitches that seem to begin earlier and earlier every year.

And this year has been no exception.

Wayne County residents have gone above and beyond this year -- sharing their good fortune with those who have not had such a good year.

More than 1,000 children will have a Christmas because of generous donors to The Empty Stocking Fund and The Salvation Army's giving trees.

More than 300 Seymour Johnson Air Force Base families were able to get special Christmas dinners this year because so many people donated to the community's Thanksgiving effort that there was plenty of money left for yuletide feasts for those in need.

Senior citizens received special gifts and Meals on Wheels recipients will have meals to tide them over the holiday period because so many responded to the call for help.

And six local families will have a Christmas and be able to pick up their lives after the community rallied to help them after a fire.

And those are just a few of the good deeds done this holiday season.

As jaded as the world seems sometimes, and as often as we think that the true spirit of Christmas has been lost in the lights and the ringing cash registers, it is comforting to know that there are still people out there who remember that it is not about ribbons and bows.

The true Christmas story is a gift of love and a testament to faith.

Thank goodness so many here have not forgotten that true reason for the season.

Merry Christmas.

Published in Editorials on December 24, 2013 10:16 AM