Editorial: The gift of love comes in many forms during the holiday season

It’s the holiday season and Santa Claus is making his final checks on his naughty and nice list about who will receive what gift. I am here to say that we should all take part and help out with his list by all of us being nice during the holiday season.

This time of year has both its highs and lows. For some, it’s a joyous occasion. For others, it’s a reminder of the loved ones we have lost that won’t be able to celebrate with us. This year, I encourage everybody to give the gift of love and support to each other.

Physical gifts can be bought as symbols, but the true meaning of the holiday season is to share love and adoration for all. When we celebrate holidays, it should be to build a support system. The holidays should reflect a combination of gratitude, reflection, and spirit to help others. Every person on this earth has faced their individual trials. Every person on this earth has had their ups and downs. Every person on this earth is not perfect. But every person on this earth can learn from their mistakes and learn to love and accept one another for who they are.

There will always be factoring opinions in life. From political parties to constitutional laws to what’s the best topping to put on pizza (pepperoni of course), no two people are the same when it comes to our beliefs and personalities. But we all do have the trait of love that can be shared.

Many of the things we learn while we are young are taught to us. To care, love, and support a person is one of them. What we need to do is not hone that scope on just our family and friends. We need to expand those walls. We need to open those gates because there are some people who have never felt those feelings before believe it or not. Sometimes a simple smile, a hug, or just a “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” will impact one person. That one person starts a ripple effect, an it spreads to others.

When you are out shopping or eating, do a small thing to show love. Holding a door, letting someone get in front of you in line with less items, or just a simple saying to have a blessed holiday is the difference. That’s love.

So, I am wishing everybody a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!