I'm not sure how to explain it but I sense a real difference in the way Christmas is being approached this year. It's as if we finally are starting to get it....presents, consumption and consumerism are not just less important parts of the celebration, they really have little importance in the world in which we live. Friends and family now gather to appreciate one another and the blessings experienced over the year. It truly is becoming a time of expressing gratitude for what we already have and hope that others in less fortunate circumstances may experience a better future by sharing with them our good fortune. Even my kids are encouraging our grandchildren to experience the joy of giving to others and helping to improve things in our global community just a little!
For the past few years I have volunteered with a local organization called the Kingston Grandmothers' Connection. This amazing group of energetic and creative women fundraise in support of both the Stephen Lewis Foundation and Help Lesotho. Courageous African women and children are assisted through funding from groups such as ours, allowing them the opportunity to develop their lives with optimism and self-assurance. I just discovered that one of the interns in the Help Lesotho program has a blog. If you are interested,check it out at internsinlesotho.blogspot.com.
Ann, Mary-Kathryn and I encourage you to relax and enjoy your Happy holidays with family and friends!!
from Jeri
