A “Friendly” reminder

I checked the calendar twice on Monday morning and, sure enough, ONLY TWO WEEKS until the Christmas Holiday. Now, if you celebrate Christmas and love the holiday like I do, the two-week Christmas whistle is alarming. For me, this means only two weeks left to get in any holiday gatherings, shop, send out cards, wrap presents, and bake. For others, the two-week alarm may feel different than just getting things done. It may mean coping with the loneliness brought on by the death of a loved one or family living far away. Whatever your situation, one of the things we can do to spread some Holiday Joy and Cheer while dealing with grief or loneliness is to help others. Each year, JMHS puts out a request to the community to share in the spirit of making our care center residents’ and assisted living tenants’ holidays a bit cheerier. Donations are currently being accepted to send a holiday arrangement to each individual resident and tenant  by calling Heather Nursery at 320-769-2161. Every year, we have many generous donors who help us bring some cheer and brighten up the residents’ and tenants’ holidays. We appreciate everyone giving their gifts to help the older adults in our community.

Wrapping up this week’s message, I want to leave you with a community call to action. Please join me in taking a moment to check on friends, neighbors, and family who may not be feeling Holiday Cheerful or are coping with loneliness. Your card, call, or a friendly smile may be all they need to have a more joyous holiday season.