Recently, one of our daughters was lamenting that her 7-year-old was questioning if Santa was real, and she wasn’t sure how to answer. I was reminded of a quote credited to Edwin Osgood Grover:
“Santa Claus is anyone who loves another and seeks to make them happy; who gives himself by thought or word or deed in every gift that he bestows; who shares his joys with those who are sad; whose hand is never closed against the needy; whose arm is ever outreached to aid the weak; whose sympathy is quick and genuine in time of trouble; who recognizes a comrade and brother in every man he meets upon life’s common road; who lives his life throughout the entire year in the Christmas spirit.”
Thus, “Santas” don’t always wear red fur, but they are out there spreading light in this darkened world.
Like many of you, each year we look for ways that we can be “Santas” by helping others. This year we are inviting our grandchildren to “suit up” as well. We are giving each of them some money to help us spread kindness by seeking out someone who could use a little cheer and finding a way to bring a little light into their lives. Our hope is that each will experience the feeling of joyfully serving others and “being a Santa.”
Speaking of Santa, he is scheduled to make his annual appearance in Brimfield on Dec. 16 and 17 when the Brimfield Township Fire Department will escort Santa on a fire truck throughout the township to drop off gifts to deserving boys and girls. Brimfield residents who live north of Tallmadge Road will receive deliveries from 10 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16. Residents who live south of Tallmadge Road will receive their deliveries from 12:30 p.m. to approximately 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 17.
To participate, wrapped gifts can be dropped off at the fire station at 1333 Tallmadge Rd. before Tuesday, Dec. 13 by 4 p.m. Use the original town hall doors in the back of the building or the door on the north side of the building. Each gift must have attached the child’s name, delivery address, and a phone number that can be reached on the day of delivery.
The Brimfield Historical Society is inviting the community to a Christmas dinner and auction on Thursday, Dec. 7. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m., and decorated artificial mini-trees will be auctioned at 7 p.m. For more information contact Kristi McMillen at 330-673-1964
Brimfield’s Young At Heart group is very active. Every other Monday at 10 a.m. the group meets at Mike’s Place Restaurant for breakfast. In December they will meet on the 4th and 18th. Those planning to attend can RSVP to DonnaRae Flanary at 330-592-4318.
If you are looking for a way to do your Christmas shopping without dragging children along, Brimfield Parks and Rec may have the solution with the Holiday Drop N’ Shop event from 6 p.m. till 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8. Children ages 5-12 years can be dropped off at the Brimfield Community Center, 4538 Edson Rd. There will be pizza, games, activities, and take-home crafts. The cost is $20 for the first child and $10 for each additional child. The maximum class size is 20 children. Registration is required by Dec. 7 or until the event fills up. To register, call 330-678-0739 or email [email protected].
If you are struggling to find the right gifts to give this year, consider supporting the many small businesses in our township. The Window Box carries unique gifts along with flowers and plants and a gift card or treat from the Brimfield Bread Oven is always appreciated.
For book lovers, there are local authors that would welcome your support. Jenn Hoffman, who was raised in Brimfield, recently published a book, “Out of the Garden: Breaking Free From Sin and Shame,” which is a book about finding rest and growing in faith. Jenn invites you to break away from brokenness and reclaim your life. Jenn “combines personal experiences, counseling skills, and a biblical framework to emphasize the importance of your thoughts. Through humor and vulnerability, this book offers the necessary skills to pursue an abundant and fulfilling life. Transform your life when you change the way you think.” I have known Jenn since she was very young, and she is such a lovely person, wise beyond her years.
A few months ago, I wrote about local author, Nikki Husted, who wrote, “Chicken Keeping Pure and Simple: A Fun, Friendly Guide to Backyard Chicken Keeping.” I enjoyed reading it, and I don’t even have chickens. Both books can be purchased on Amazon and would make meaningful gifts.
Even though Kirtland is almost an hour away, the Historic Kirtland Nativity Exhibit is well worth the drive. It features hundreds of nativities displayed from all around the world and even features a children’s nativity room where young ones can dress in nativity costumes. The exhibit is open through Dec. 31. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 7 p.m. (Exceptions are Christmas Eve: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Christmas Day, and New Years Eve 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Free admission and parking.
If you want some family-friendly service ideas for the Christmas season, check out the “Light the World” website at https://www.lighttheworld.org/
Martin Luther King wisely said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
We always end our yoga sessions with: “The light in me bows to and honors that light in you. May all beings be happy and free, and may my words, thoughts and deeds contribute to the happiness and freedom of all, no exceptions.”
My Christmas wish for each of you is that your coming year may be filled with light and love.
Until next time. Got news? Share it by contacting Shirley Mars at 330-673-0241 or at [email protected]
