As we approach one of the most joyous times of the year, I’d like to pass along a special request that if acted upon will actually become a blessing for you as much as other people involved.

With Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa fast approaching our thoughts turn to spending time with family and friends, and making some wonderful memories that can last a lifetime. Sadly, however, there are many fine people in our region who for one reason or another won’t get to spend some happy moments with loved ones or treasured friends during this period.

Some of these folks happen to be in local nursing homes and assisted living facilities.  It may be that the husband or wife of a resident has passed away, and there’s no family in the area that comes to call. Tragically it may be that there is family in the area, and whatever the circumstances the resident still faces the holidays without any visitors.

Indeed nursing and assisted living facility staff does the best they can to show these residents a little extra love and attention. And yet, I can’t begin to tell you how much it would mean if you would take a little time and plan on stopping by a local healthcare facility to spend some moments with residents who are otherwise lacking company.

Perhaps in your family there are children who could use a warm smile or a hug from an elderly person, a “substitute grandparent” if you will, in case your children’s grandparents have passed away. Even if not, every young person (and not so young for that matter) can use an extra grandparent, and our local nursing homes and assisted living communities have several outstanding candidates for you!

If you plan on taking me up on my suggestion, just drop in and let the building’s administrator or executive director know of your intentions, and they’ll get you fixed right up with one (or maybe a couple) of residents. Maybe even plan, if you can, to visit a few times if possible over the holiday season.

Now for that blessing for you I earlier mentioned: yes indeed you’ll be brightening up the lives of some special people … and yet I know for a fact because I’ve seen it so many times over the years, that the joy you’ll bring will only be exceeded by the joy you’ll feel inside due to your efforts! Certainly the residents will appreciate seeing you, however, this experience will offer great personal fulfillment and make the holidays much more enjoyable and meaningful for you as well.