Tis the Season

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My son texted me the other day and shared with me the two charities he chose to provide meals to those in need this Thanksgiving. I was proud he took the time to think of others this upcoming holiday season and to remind me to step up as well. I sent him back a quote by Gandhi. I don’t usually quote Gandhi, but I saw this quote on a daily informational TV screen at an assisted living facility I recently helped a relative transition to. Mahatma Gandhi observed “that the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

These past few years have been a challenge to all Americans. COVID was crushing on so many levels and affected so many aspects of our lives, work, school, socializing etc. The past two years have been even more challenging with runaway inflation, rising interest rates, gas and home heating oil prices almost doubling, a rise in crime and our 401(K) plans dwindling.

I’d like to think I’m a glass-half-full guy and take time to recognize with all the problems we face as Americans, we are still a caring and giving nation and people. This holiday season, especially, I’m going to count my blessings (my daughter gave birth to my first grandchild in October to name a big one!) and give what I can to my favorite charities and to give of my time as well, especially to the elderly.

If you want to keep your donations local, we are lucky to have a great organization in town, Suffield Community Aid. They provide a host of services, and if they can’t provide or meet your needs, they can point you in the right direction. If your dollars are going elsewhere, hurricane victims’ relief, veterans organizations, medical research etc., there are two great resources, Charitywatch and Charity Navigator that rate hundreds of charities and provide great insight as to which ones your dollars will go the farthest.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving and a very Merry Christmas or, whatever you celebrate, be safe and enjoy.

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