People spend their entire lives building relationships. From the time we are children, some of us put enormous amounts of time into developing friendships, and if we're really lucky, we come to appreciate the blessing of siblings and other members of our immediate families.
In former days, the family unit was so central to everything we did that we paid particular attention to our elders - grandparents and others who could no longer care for themselves. In some cases today, due to various reasons, the elderly among us are no longer able to stay in their own homes, and children are so busy with careers and other obligations that it is difficult if not impossible for them to care for their aging parents.
Unfortunately, this means that at least in some cases, the elderly among us suffer most from loneliness and depression. These realities are all the more prevelant as we near the celebration of Christmas, because this holiday is traditionally associated with family gatherings, with enjoying the company of good friends and with giving thanks for our abundant blessings.
It only takes a moment to visit with or call someone who is elderly or shut in due to illness. A kind word shared today can go a long way to mending bridges or to reinforcing the ties that bind us. Why not make someone's day today by reaching out to someone who you haven't spoken with for a while, or someone who you've been meaning to contact, or someone who'se been in the back of your mind? You might be surprised by the result, and the reward may just possibly be two fold.
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