Although many may immediately associate the holiday season with brightly-wrapped presents shared among friends and family, I want to take a moment to encourage people to think about another kind of gift-giving this holiday season: helping those who are less fortunate.
It is my wish that during the holidays, everyone who is able set aside some time to help others. There are members of our community who do not have the means to purchase gifts for their children, who struggle to put food on the table even though they work full-time, or who may not have a home for the holidays. Additionally, there are those throughout California and across the country whose lives have been devastated by floods, hurricanes or fires.
All of these people could use a helping hand, which can come in many forms and does not need to be a monetary donation. Donating your time can be just as valuable as a donation of money. Your gift of service to others can have a positive impact and help to create a sense of community that may not be there in our everyday lives. You can help food banks package food for the hungry, donate warm clothes to the homeless, visit senior citizens or donate blood to those in need.
My family and I have a tradition of volunteering and I encourage you to volunteer during this holiday season as well. The joy that it brings us is rewarding and a powerful reminder of the meaning of the season. We find the most positive aspect of service to others is getting to know people we would not otherwise have the occasion to meet, as it broadens our sense of community.
In these times of uncertainty, natural and human made disasters, and the desperation caused by poverty and homelessness, those of us who are able to make a small difference can help to reinforce the basic bonds of community and humanism.
I wish you, your friends and family a peaceful and joyous holiday season and a healthy and happy 2018.
Sen. Bill Monning represents the 17th State Senate District, which includes all of San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz counties, and portions of Monterey and Santa Clara counties.
