If you’ve taken part in any of our local holiday festivities, you’ve likely seen the tremendous effort that goes into them year after year. Whether it’s a parade, a tree-lighting ceremony, or a visit from Santa, those moments of festive magic come from countless hours of planning, decorating, coordinating and showing up.
Lately, it’s made me think about the volunteer opportunities I’ve been a part of over the years and how many of my most meaningful relationships grew from those experiences. People truly shine when they’re serving others and who wouldn’t want to be surrounded by that kind of light?
I mentioned in an earlier column the remarkable story of Roseto, Pennsylvania in the 1960s. Researchers discovered that despite poor diets, smoking, and no special environmental advantages, the town had virtually no heart disease. What it did have was an incredible sense of community: 22 civic organizations in a town of just 1,600 people. Roseto thrived not because of individual habits, but because of collective care. Neighbors looked out for one another. They gathered, they volunteered, they gave.
What a beautiful way to live. And perhaps a reminder that we could use more of that spirit here; more connection, more involvement, more community woven through acts of service.
