Thursday, December 20, 2012

Reach Out To Others This Season

This piece was run in today's Southtown Star Newspaper...


Reach out to others this season
During the holiday season, there is typically a lot of talk about spending time with family and other loved ones. Many people get together to share meals, exchange gifts, attend church services and other holiday events.
All of this is, of course, very nice, but for some people, holidays can actually be a painful time, particularly from a relationship standpoint. The emphasis on relationships at this time of year is an unwelcome reminder for some, and their loneliness is magnified.
I don’t write this letter to put a damper on your festivities. I truly hope you’re experiencing joy and happiness, and I’m all in favor of festivities! However, it seems reasonable to encourage all of us to take a moment to think about folks we may know who could be included in our holiday celebrations.
Wouldn’t it be nice if we reached out a hand of friendship, fellowship and love to a neighbor or co-worker or other friend and helped them feel appreciated and to experience a little extra joy? Thinking of others is surely in keeping with the spirit of Christmas.
Dan Marler
First Church of God
Oak Lawn




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