With Christmas only two short days away, many of us are busy shopping for our families and loved ones. Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year to spend quality time with family and friends. This year I wanted to do something different that would make a difference in someone’s life.I decided that on Dec. 25, I will volunteer part of my day to spend with lonely people. Christmas can be a difficult time for people who don’t have families. Many of us get wrapped up in our own celebrations on Christmas Day and forget about those who are less fortunate.Helping someone or a complete stranger is an important part of Christmas. It creates a certain energy that has lasting effects in our society. Christmas is a great time to start new relationships. Mission City and District Lions Club is hosting its seventh annual Christmas dinner called “Christmas Dinner for the Lonely” on Christmas Day.”The dinner will be held at ABC Restaurant in Mission where staff have volunteered to help cook and serve food. ission Lions Club has been hosting this event at a local church for the past six years and this year moved to a restaurant. Organizers expect approximately 50 guests for dinner. Santa will give out presents.I will be on hand, along with Lion members to share the Christmas spirit. The Lions Club and its sponsors have generously donated their time and support for this cause. Many of the lonely people who attend enjoy the dinner and want to come back next year. Lions Member Dave Adams said” “For the past seven years we have sponsored a Christmas dinner for the Lonely on Christmas Day. We ask the local churches, seniors homes and service agencies to give us names of people who are going to be alone at Christmas time. They are then contacted and invited to join us for dinner. We also provide transportation to and from the dinner for those who need it. Most of the lonely people are seniors and it is very heartwarming to share a little Christmas spirit with those less fortunate.”James and Hanna Choi of Mission are a couple that have shown that service beyond self can have endless satisfaction. The Chois have been helping to make Canada a better place since immigrating from Korea six years ago. Every Tuesday the couple host and serve dinner at the Zion Church in Mission, helping out the many unfortunate people who come through the door. At this year’s Christmas dinner seven turkeys were served and more than 200 people attended. When I spoke with Hanna about her family’s contribution, she replied: “We like to be humble, thank you.” Christmas is for all and everyone should have the same opportunities to celebrate. Volunteers like the Lions Club and the Choi’ are just two of the many people who provide hope and make Christmas special for the people who need it the most. Christmas brings people together in sharing. I hope hese stories capture your imagination and inspire you to do more. Have a safe and wonderful Christmas.
KenHerar@gmail.com
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