When I was young, my Christmas excitement was wrapped up in what presents I was going to get from Santa. Now, whenever I think about what meant the most to me in past Christmases I don’t think of the gifts received, but the experiences and emotions shared. An outstanding memory for me is the tradition my parents (both teachers) created for the families from a Head Start summer program. My parents were hired for a few summers to implement the academic program for underprivileged families in a rural area in Ohio. For years, my parents would open up our home and put on a Christmas party for those Head Start families. In advance of the party, they would ask for donations from local businesses so the visiting Santa could pass out gifts to those attending. My parents did not do this as part of a civic club or for their church, they were just ordinary folks finding a way to help those less fortunate. Their selfless acts of kindness showed me the true spirit of Christmas. Like Santa Claus, they dispensed not just Christmas presents but gifts of good works— never expecting repayment in “thank-yous” or financial reimbursement.
That Christmas memory inspires me to this day. I created the EAST COBBER magazine 24 years ago so I could spotlight people like my parents: those ordinary people doing extraordinary things in the community. This issue continues that editorial tradition: from featuring Brenda Rhodes, founder of Simple Needs GA on the front cover, to Earl Smith’s generous donation to The Strand Theatre (see page 6). As modeled by my parents, I truly believe that helping others and giving of oneself is the greatest thing we can do with our lives. Giving helps us feel a sense of purpose and connection to the rest of the human race. And around Christmas time it feels even better!
People do extraordinary things at this time of the year that they wouldn’t normally and they do it because the holidays feel like a time to share and love. Whatever you celebrate—Christmas or Hanukkah–I hope you’ll take some time to reflect on and be inspired by the joy and generosity that you see going on around you.
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!
Cynthia M. Rozzo
Founder | Publisher
cynthia@eastcobber.com
This editor’s note originally appeared in the December issue of the EAST COBBER magazine, on page 4. Click HERE to access the digital edition.
