A Story of True Holiday Spirit

During our very first Christmas in this home, our new neighbors went out of their way to make us feel welcome and included. They make trays of cookies for everyone in their family, and they are always sure to make a tray for us.

One afternoon, right before Christmas eve, we found a giant present on our doorstep. Their little girl was hiding inside, popped out and yelled surprise, and giggled the entire way back over to their yard.

Such a sweet little gesture, that meant so much. People seldom realize how much it means just to be seen, to be welcome, to be someone you want to give cookies to. My sincere wish for this new year is that we all find that spirit of offering our hands to our neighbors, whether they are new to us or have been there all this time.

Wishing everyone a happy holiday, and all the best in the new year.

A.

A. Gerri Budd, PhD