I love Grand County.  I love the place, the people, the opportunities and the lifestyle that we lead.  I try to spend time during the holidays each year reflecting on the reasons we call this place home.  

As I look back on the year, I try to think about the things I got right, the things I got wrong, what I have done for those around me and what I should have done to help make this a better place. I try to reflect on the year in a positive light of personal growth and add that knowledge to the tote bag of life.

As we celebrate Christmas and the rest of the holiday season, let’s not forget those who are less fortunate, those that lack the means for a festive holiday dinner or presents for their children or loved ones.  We all know ‘need’ won’t end with the holiday season.  That same need will persist, post-Christmas, long after the Grand Lake Plumbing “Tubs of Love” and the Cooper Creek Square “Angel Tree” have been put away.

This holiday, make a pledge to yourself to follow through with donations to charities that help others, strive to make peace with your foes and spend more time with your friends and family.

Pledge to yourself, and then follow through in your actions, to volunteer time with food pantries, church meal services or your favorite non-profit.

If you have elderly neighbors living alone, wish them a Merry Christmas today and take them  something from your holiday spread. One of the most difficult things that can happen as we grow older is a feeling of being unwanted or forgotten. Remember that we all can end up in a less fortunate place at any given moment.

We wish our readers bountiful joy and childlike hearts this holiday season and please share that joy and generosity with others. Peace be with you and yours, Merry Christmas!