Hello everyone!

 

The holidays are here and now is important time to step back, take a breath, and be grateful for all the special people in our lives. Please be sure to also remember those who have more tough time with the holidays. If you do know someone who is maybe dealing with loss, or difficult time, be sure to reach out and let them know you are there for them. A gesture like bringing by groceries, an invitation to Christmas dinner, even a smile and a hug can make a big difference. 

 

I was in a tough situation myself ten years ago and had one of the worst holidays of my life. I had abandoned my family and most of my friends due to anxiety and depression. I finally decided to drag myself out for a walk Christmas afternoon and I ran into an old friend who was back in town for the holidays. At first I kept my head down as I did not want to draw her eye as she walked by on the other side of the road, I was feeling pretty low and embarrassed that I was all alone. She spotted me and ran over and gave me a big hug and starting chatting with me. We spent a few minutes catching up and she then gave me another big embrace and a smile goodbye. I still to this day remember how fortunate I was to run into her and how it made me feel a little more hopeful; she took the time to come up to me and see how I was doing, especially when I didn't think I had a friend in the world at that time. It was a small gesture, but the biggest gift I could have received that Christmas day.

 

As we try to do good in the community and our businesses, it’s sometimes easy to forget that the small good that we do is just as important as the bigger things. Thanks to you for all that you do. I hope we all can go out and make a difference to those who need it this holiday season and beyond. 

 

 

This week at BirchBay we will be having a small club project and will be writing holiday cards to our troops! Be sure to bring plenty of holiday cheer and an active writing hand!

 

See you this Wednesday!

 

 

Best,

 

Steve