While Christmas is a time of joy, behind the sparkling lights and carols of peace on Earth, there are often people who are struggling.

The stress and anxiety of the season can be a lot. And for some, simply trying to figure out how to put food on the table, much less a present under the tree for the kids, is overwhelming.

This time of year also provides opportunities for us to step up and help. Many organizations and individuals do that through local programs and clubs. Here in Callaway, community members donated toys for local children and purchased gifts for residents of the Good Life Center. And there have undoubtedly been people who have shared met needs that others are not even aware of.

This type of giving is very near and dear to my heart. You see, there was a time in my life when I was on the receiving end of donations like this.

My then-husband and I lived in Grand Island at the time and were between jobs with four young children ranging in age from 7 to an infant. Christmas was approaching, and we had no idea what we were going to do. Someone made us aware of a program through the Salvation Army to get food, so we went to the church building where the boxes were being distributed and stood in the long line to receive our box. To be perfectly honest, it was one of the most humbling experiences of my life.

But hard as that was, I was ever so grateful when I was able to prepare a Christmas feast for my family. There was another group, I’m not even sure who they were, who came to our door with a box of toys, stocking hats and gloves for the kids. We wrapped those and put them under the tree, and gave the children a Christmas. Thanks to people who cared and were willing to share. Today I am beyond grateful to be in a position to give back. These toys, food items, and gifts are so much more than just packages - they are an opportunity to say we see you, and we care.

Merry Christmas.