With only four more sleeps until Christmas, now is the time to buy and wrap the last minute presents, to prepare a list of food for the Christmas lunch and make room for visiting loved ones.
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But now is also the time to think of those less fortunate than yourselves. Those who are not only struggling to provide a festive feast and presents for their families for Christmas, but those who have very little to pay for even the essentials in life, like basic foods, clothing and finding money for electricity and car bills.
These needy people aren’t necessarily those who are homeless or living on the streets. They may be a family member, a work colleague, a friend, who struggles in silence because they feel too proud to ask for help. They may be the person you pass in the street who walk by with a smile on their face, despite struggling financially and emotionally.
Now is the time of the year when these people are most vulnerable. They may feel added pressure of trying to provide something special during a time when they have very little.
If you are one of the lucky ones not struggling financially and emotionally, maybe you could dig a little deeper this year and buy something extra to give to someone in need. It doesn’t have to be big or expensive. Donating to one of the many appeals in the region which assist the less fortunate will not only help someone in need, it may also give a sense of satisfaction that you doing something good for someone else … no strings attached.
And there are those who have no-one to celebrate the festive season with. Whether they be elderly who have no family, or someone new to the district, take time to think about those who will be celebrating Christmas alone. Offering a seat at your Christmas lunch table could just make a lonely person’s day.
If you are travelling to visit family and loved ones for the festive season or taking your children away for the school holidays, remember to drive to the road conditions, take a break if you feel tired, but most of all arrive at your destination safe and sound.
Staff at The Advocate would like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy 2017.
This is our last edition for 2016. Our first edition for 2017 will be January 18.
- Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
