We had our first snow fall yesterday. It wasn't a lot. Just enough to cover the ground and send the kids scurrying outside to attempt to build a snowman. It was also enough to let everyone know that winter is here and the holiday season is upon us.
This will be my first holiday season as a married man. I now have a lovely wife, Marianne, and step-daughter, Lauren, to share the holiday with. I have not only the family I was born into but also a family brought together by Love. As such, I feel very lucky!
I also find it sad that there are others out there who feel more alone or unloved at this time of year than at any other. Having spent 9 years in the military deployed around the world, I know what that feels like.
Jen Lemen has reposted her experience from a trip to Trader Joes at this time last year. Jen has a beautiful soul and I think this is a glowing example of how her random acts of kindness help to make this world a better place. I think we all need to take this story to heart. Remember as you're out doing your shopping and you're getting frustrated with the traffic and the crowds that there are others out there who have it worse than you do. Try to spread a little holiday cheer instead of screaming at that person that just took your parking spot. Put on a smile and give a friendly greeting to a stranger you pass in the store. You never know how your kindness may affect others.
I have just one more example to share with you of kindness and helping others. This Story off of the Official Google Blog tells of a couple of their employees who helped others bring their bundles of joy into this world.
May you all have a wonderful holiday season!
