It's Christmas Eve and I couldn't be happier. The shopping is done and wrapped, thanks to my wife. I'm thankful to her for looking after most of it as I'm more of a last-minute type. That's why 7-Eleven was invented, wasn't it?
There's a lot to be thankful for this time of year. We have a generous spirit in Delta, both from our wallets and our time. This comes alive in many ways, including the Deltassist Toy Depot and Operation Red Nose.
Every year, Deltassist puts out the word about the Toy Depot. Lots of people and companies come together to make donations, and the result is quite overwhelming.
You may have seen pictures of what the Toy Depot looks like. The East Delta Hall is filled with the donated items, and the parents of families who are having a tough time wander through and choose something for their children. As they do, they are always made to feel welcomed, not pitied. They choose their toys, clothes, sports equipment, a couple of books and a stuffie or two and check out, just like at any store. The only difference is no money is exchanged. It seems so small, making a donation, dropping off a toy. I heard of a few people that almost made a competition of buying bikes to donate. Until you see the Toy Depot in person, you'll never realize the importance of that donation. Not only have you given a child a gift, one they would otherwise not receive, you've given their parents a bigger gift - not having to explain why Santa won't be coming.
We can complain about the commercialization of Christmas, which is easy when it's a choice. When it's not, you're just different. That's not fair to kids. And thanks to you, they won't feel that way, even if just for a day.
People also give with their time. At a time of year when family matters most, many are willing to give their time to make someone else's life better. One way is through Operation Red Nose. Volunteering from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. isn't most people's idea of fun, but it is.
Volunteering is always an adventure as no two nights are the same. You get to meet a lot of people, usually in a pretty good mood after a few drinks, who are always thankful for the service. The highlight for me this year was a couple of young guys heading to Tsawwassen.
My navigator, these two guys and I were singing away to Journey's Don't Stop Believing at the top of our lungs. Fortunately, the navigator had a good voice, given mine is so bad it could crack a mirror in the car beside me. And, of course, the guys thought they were rock stars. They were - they called for a safe ride home.
So tomorrow morning, as the gift wrap flies and the smiles come out, know that this Christmas may have been very different for someone, if not for the generosity of the people in our community. A toy for a child, a loved one sitting beside you. That, to me, is what Christmas is all about.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
