Today is the Winter Solstice. On what is the darkest day of the year, with the least amount of daylight in the Northern Hemisphere, we ask that you be the light for those around you.

While out and about, be sure to smile! For some it may be the only smile they see today.

Those working in the retail, delivery, and restaurant industries have been working long hours and would appreciate your patience and kindness.

If someone in the checkout line has fewer items than you, let them go first. Or perhaps pay for the order behind you in the drive thru today.

Check in on senior neighbors or families with young children. Perhaps offer to run some last minute errands for them, or ask if there is some other way you can lend a helping hand.

If you know of someone who is a caregiver, offer to help so they can have a little time off to recharge, go someplace they’ve been wanting to visit, or even just to get their own errands done. 

For those in the storm swept parts of the country, help a neighbor with the cleanup. Or offer a hot meal and warm shelter for those still without power.

Donate to your local food pantry, and if there is still time make a drop off to a toy / coat drive.

Donate your gently used dog toys, blankets and towels, and maybe add treats, to help make the Holidays brighter for animals in shelters waiting for their forever homes. Also consider adding something for the volunteers who will be working over the Holidays caring for these animals.

Reach out to friends and family that you’ve been meaning to catch up with. There’s no better time than the present.

And remember Christmas isn’t always a happy time for everyone. Take time to listen to those who’ve lost a loved one, dealing with a serious medical diagnosis, or may be struggling for any number of reasons this season. Let them know that they are not alone.

Together we can all make the darkest day of the year a little brighter for those around us.