"We make a living by what we get – we make a life by what we give" - Winston Churchill
As we enter the beauty and warmth of the holiday season, I am reminded once again of the remarkable spirit of giving that defines our community. There is something unique about this time of year that brings out the best in us; a shared sense of kindness and generosity that permeates our thoughts, our actions and our relationships with one another.
Perhaps it is the Lions Club, whose Food Basket Program will provide more than 300 area families with two week’s worth of food, as well as age appropriate toys for children, many of whom would have otherwise gone without gifts this year. Or maybe it is several of our local churches whose Food Pantries quietly support families facing financial hardships or unexpected challenges. We see it, too, in the coat drive, and toy drives organized by dedicated volunteer groups like the Knights of Columbus the Darien Rotary, and the Woman’s Club each working to ensure that warmth, comfort and joy reach into every corner of our community.
But the giving does not just end with our local churches and organizations. This season, I have seen residents step forward to help one another in countless ways. During our most recent snowfall, neighbors came out to clear driveways and walkways, offering a hand to those who needed it most. These simple acts of kindness, acts that expect nothing in return, are among the greatest gifts we can give one another. While such gestures happen throughout the year in Darien, the holiday season always seems to shine an even brighter light on the compassion within our community.
This is a time when we recognize how much we truly depend on one another, and how meaningful even the smallest gesture can be to someone in need. It is a season that reminds us to appreciate what we have here in Darien. Our “nice place to live” becomes, more than ever, a community of thoughtful, caring individual who look out for one another.
As we celebrate the holidays, let us each find a way, big or small, to give back to the wonderful community we call home. Together, we can continue to make Darien not just a “nice place to live,” but an even nicer place to live for all of us.
Warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season and a happy and healthy New Year!