People make a difference in the lives of others everyday in a myriad of ways. At the New Year, it would be wonderful if we could all focus each day on doing something special for another without expectation of reward or praise. Just because…
I have an example of that generosity of spirit right here in Cary, North Carolina that really touched my heart. I have a dear Jewish friend who for many, many years has baked trays of homemade cookies and delivered them on Christmas Day to the police and fire department personnel unlucky enough to be assigned Christmas duty. Roxanne started this practice while living in Maui; she and her sweet husband Tony made their merry rounds in Maui each Christmas. It brought smiles and happiness to so many that it became a tradition! So on Christmas Day while most of us were unwrapping gifts and eating fabulous food with family, my Jewish friend Rox and her husband were delivering homemade treats to our dedicated policemen and firemen right here in Cary!
Do you have an example of such goodwill to share with me and others? I would enjoy hearing your own personal stories or those of people you know.
My dear sister Terry in Smithfield, North Carolina, for example, plays the piano on Sunday mornings for the migrant workers at their Sunday School. Terry is a gifted musician and loves sharing her passion for singing and playing. The faces of the young people light up when she appears.
My dear husband Wayne loves playing Santa Claus each Christmas. He visits nursing homes and retirement centers , delivering cheer and candy canes. He comes home telling stories of the happy faces he sees when he delivers his own personal brand of holiday cheer. Even right here at home in Cary, North Carolina, Wayne plays Santa to children of our clients.each year. It is a tradition we have come to love and look forward to. We provide “Cookies and Cocoa with Santa. This year we had 25-30 youngsters sit on Santa Wayne’s knee and tell him their own personal wishes for gifts and toys. It touches our hearts to see the joy on children’s faces. One more example of making a difference with no expectation of reward or praise.
Once again, please feel free to share your personal story with me and perhaps together we can make a difference in this bright New Year 2011!
