My apologies go out to all of you who read this column. The holiday season is upon us, and my regular work and family schedule has engulfed much of my time. So I have had to prioritize a few things in order to find more time for this column which I love to write.
This time of year it is easy to forget things in the hustle and bustle of the holidays. More often than not we forget those around us and all of the great things they contribute to our lives.
They may be distant like my mother, step-father, and sisters in Illinois. They could be easily forgotten due to lack of proximity, yet they remain close to my heart. This time of year, however, I must admit that I need reminding to call them and wish them well and let them know I love them.
They may be as close as the room next to yours. Your kids, your parents, your brothers and sisters, and, God forbid, your spouse! I find there is no real excuse in these cases other than a lack of attention. They are right there, yet they are often forgotten in exchange for an increased work load, a search for that one elusive gift, or maybe you just have the holiday blues.
We should be thankful for these individuals all year-round. That goes without saying. However, during the holidays, our expectations of being remembered tend to increase. Whether it's a card, a call, or an unplanned visit; we feel that desire to be remembered by those closest to us. When we are forgotten, the disappointment is magnified due to the spirit of the season and those expectations being mixed together.
So starting today, I challenge you. Make a list. It can be as long as you need it to be. This list should be comprised of all those people that mean the most to you. That may be family members, friends, or even your congressman if that's what floats your boat!
Then when this list is finished, pick a day between now and Jan. 1. Then you can designate a day for each of these individuals. On each person's day you will send them a card, call them on the phone and wish them well, plan an afternoon for just that person, or something to show that person what they mean to you. That way nobody is forgotten in the season of forgetfulness!!!