EDITORIAL

Season highlights, challenges spirit

Posted 11/25/14

More than any other time of year, the weeks surrounding the holidays bring to the forefront the struggles and needs of so many in our communities.

For the most vulnerable among us, a season in …

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EDITORIAL

Season highlights, challenges spirit

Posted

More than any other time of year, the weeks surrounding the holidays bring to the forefront the struggles and needs of so many in our communities.

For the most vulnerable among us, a season in which we reflect and give thanks far too frequently places added strain on already lean resources. These are our neighbors, friends, family members and fellow citizens, and on occasions meant for celebration they are instead making hard choices – whether to keep the table or the boiler full, whether to shop for food or medicine, whether to pay the bills or buy gifts for their loved ones.

Amid that difficult reality, however, something else shines through – the deep spirit of giving and compassion here in the Ocean State.

As November wears on and December nears, the signs of seemingly countless charitable endeavors are impossible to miss. Food, clothing, heating assistance, vital social services – in every corner of our communities, all are being supported through the efforts of schools and churches, businesses and clubs, non-profit organizations and driven individuals.

The efforts are too many to name, as are their supporters, and no one cause or contribution should stand above any other. Whether it is a child bringing a canned good for a classroom drive or a corporation making a major financial donation, the willingness to give warrants encouragement and recognition.

The pages of our publications at this time of year serve to do just that, filled as they are with photographs and stories of charity and generosity. We also endeavor to provide context and a personal connection regarding just how real the struggles many face are, and how great the need continues to be.

Given the challenges facing our state today, we frequently in this space return to the theme of our shared stake in building a better future. Nowhere can that concept be more readily and fully realized than in our own homes and neighborhoods.

The holiday season serves to highlight more starkly than any other both the hard truths that confront us and the spirit of community that defines us. As we keep our eyes open to the former, let us continue to keep our hearts open to the latter.

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