The Present of Presence

Many of us will recall the ending of Frank Capra's classic film It's a Wonderful Life, when Harry Bailey proudly announces his brother George is "the richest man in town." Even though he was technically broke, George Bailey was rich in the things that mattered — in love and friendship, and he was held in high esteem by others.

In Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol, Bob Cratchit was a poor office clerk with barely enough money to feed his family. Yet Bob remarkably demonstrated the "spirit of Christmas" everywhere he went — smiling, greeting strangers, singing, and seeing the best in everyone and in every circumstance. Ebeneezer Scrooge, on the other hand, was "rich" according to his bankers, but he was bankrupt spiritually, emotionally, and socially.

Christmas Day is only two weeks away, and everywhere we turn, we see outward signs of this glorious holiday: trees are up, lights are blinking, Christmas songs play on all the radio stations, and stores are packed with shoppers. But are you feeling the spirit of Christmas on the inside? Are you allowing the spirit of Christmas to flow out of you and brighten the lives of those around you?

One quality that distinguished the beloved characters of George Bailey and Bob Cratchit was their selflessness. They focused their time and energy on helping others — family, friends, and even strangers. They knew how to "make the season bright," even when they had very little in terms of material wealth. They gave the present of presence simply by "being there" — to help, to listen, to encourage, and to bring laughter and joy to others.

A friend of mine recently reminded me that "perhaps our greatest ability is our availability." Think about that. How many of the seniors we serve would rather receive a visit from their loved ones than a Christmas card in the mail or a present delivered to their door? Most of us, likewise, may prefer for someone to offer their time to us, for time is more precious than material gifts.

Take a moment and think of special people you haven't seen or talked to in a while. The Christmas season is a perfect "excuse" to reach out and let them know you care and are thinking about them. Maybe it's just a text message to wish them Merry Christmas and to say how much you treasure them and hope to see them soon. A phone call or arranging a get-together is even better. Either way, offering your presence may be the best present you can give. Try it!

If we're not careful, Christmas can become a time of stress rather than joy, a time of conflict rather than peace, and a time of selfishness rather than a time of giving. Don't let Scrooge's spirit of "humbug" dampen your holiday season this year. Start by smiling and wishing someone "Merry Christmas!"

I'd like to say Merry Christmas to all our associates, residents, and your families. May God bless you, everyone!