I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year - Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens words are lilting and whimsical, floating effortlessly off our tongues as we begin this Christmas season. Here is where we start to open up our cupboards, dust off some canned food and donate it to our local food bank. Perhaps if we're feeling particularly generous, we may cook up a meal and serve it to someone less fortunate. However, after all the presents have been opened, the turkey eaten, and our extended relations exited; we all have a tendency to close that service-oriented function of our heart only to be reopened again once this magical time of year comes around.

Why is this

Please don't think me a cynic, I believe in the heart of every man, woman, and child there is deep rooted good will. But something I think we, a 21st-century modern culture, have created is a season of giving rather than a culture of giving. A season devoted to peace on earth and good will toward our fellow man. However, what should be created is a passionate culture of year-round goodness to our neighbor and taking care of the least of our brothers.

Charity is the glue by which all other aspects of our lives are held together; it guides our life in ways we may not even acknowledge. Doing good for others, especially others who cannot do so for themselves, not only benefits the person's way of life in that particular moment, but warms and lightens the heart of the servant. In this crazy, concerning, and confusing world, don't you believe we should do best to promote love and good will to all, for as long as possible?

So try it this year.

Try loving and giving of yourself past December 25th this year. Live Mr. Dickens' words, and keep Christmas alive in your heart all year round. See where you find yourself, this time, next year!