Little things mean a lot

Tis the season to state the obvious. Ironically, the obvious isn't always obvious to everyone. So let's make an attempt to do something good and wholesome with the closing weeks of 2010. I believe we can do that best by getting back to basics and remembering some very simple things that will one day become important to each of us, if they aren't already.

The basics are true all year long, actually. But during the holidays, and it doesn't matter which holidays you and your family might celebrate, the basics are especially true. And the basics are these, as we age we tend to become less mobile and less socially active. However, our desire to spend time with people and feel cared for sticks with us throughout our lives.

A personal visit from a friend or family member is invaluable to an elderly person who doesn't get out as much as they used to. This is especially true during the holidays, when the cold wind, icy sidewalks, and blowing snow conspire to make even a short walk outside a real risk for many of our more seasoned citizens. You may be surprised how uplifting your presence can be to an old friend, a relative, or a former neighbor who spends much of their time indoors, often alone. The social interaction of your time spent together is like gold to many of the elderly. It lifts their spirits and buoys their outlook on the future. So if you have friends, or family members who might be alone this season, I encourage you to take the plunge and visit if you can.

Of course many of us have relocated far from our hometown's through marriage, work, or circumstances that may be beyond our control. That distance can make visiting in person difficult. However you can still reach out and make a someone in your life feel special and cared for. A phone call, or a card that includes a personal note can go a long way toward making a distant friend or relative feel the warmth of your caring, even from across a continent, or an ocean.

We should all keep in mind too that gifts are just as rewarding to receive at 90 as they were when we were 9. Practical or sentimental gifts can remind the recipient of how important their family ties still are, even if they don't see you in person as often as they once did. Certainly, grandma probably has no need for a skateboard, or an Xbox – but there are a whole host of inexpensive options that have the ability to let grandma know that her children, grandchildren, and even great grandchildren are thinking of her and value her presence. If that gift can be presented in person, all the better. But even a brief interaction with a package delivery person can make someone in your life feel brighter and more enthusiastic during the holidays.

I sincerely hope you, your family, and your friends enjoy a wonderful holiday season this year. If for no other reason than the end of the year tends to encourage us to reflect a bit on what is important to us, and how we might be more engaged and active in our own lives in the coming year. For that, we can all be grateful. Hopefully, grateful enough to call, write, and visit those we think of often, but seldom see.