Christmas Day is just over the horizon, and that holiday comes in the middle of a season of them, representing many faiths – Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and in February, Lunar New Year.
Winter holidays are often about bringing people together – family and friends – to bring joy and light to a season that could use a little bit more of both.
It’s a dark time of year literally, and for many metaphorically. Whether it’s war abroad or hard times here at home, some people are struggling.
But Langley comes together every year to extend a helping hand.
We’ve seen innumerable fundraisers this season for good causes, from the bell ringers funding the meals and beds at the Gateway of Hope shelter, to the Langley Christmas Bureau’s tireless work, to efforts for charities for children, seniors, and even the cats and dogs at the local animal shelters.
This is a time of year when people open their hearts to others, more than ever.
Around Christmas, after the frantic rush to get a tree, buy and wrap presents, get the fixings for dinner (whether turkey or tofurkey) there is, at last, a quiet time.
The community slows down. The cars that are on the road are essential workers keeping the hospital and buses and other vital works running. Stores open every other day of the year are closed. A hush falls over even the busy urban cores of our area.
This annual pause, when the presents are opened and the glass of eggnog is topped up, is one of the great gifts of the year.
It’s a time for walks with family (in the rain or, just possibly, a bit of wet snow), for watching a favourite holiday movie in pyjamas, or for having a long chat and catching up with folks we haven’t seen in months.
However you celebrate this holiday season, we hope you find these moments of peace and harmony, and time for loved ones.
– M.C.
