By: Ashley Hillman
Community Collaborations Director
As I look outside my window, I notice that the steady rain that followed me into work today is now a bit thicker…yes, snow. It’s this time of year that I often find myself stepping back for a moment to reflect on the good fortune of having socks and shoes on my feet and a coat to keep me warm. It’s this time of year that I find myself more thankful than other times for food on the table and reliable transportation.
Very soon, the fluffy white flakes falling from the sky will cover trees, buildings, sidewalks and driveways, making it more difficult for so many to get to the grocery store, medical appointments and school. And for those who do not have reliable transportation, waiting for the bus or for TRAX in the cold, blistery weather may be miserable without proper clothing to keep warm.
It is often easy to get caught up in daily tasks of running from point A to point B, toting the kids from school to practice, and ramping up for holiday preparations and festivities. I find myself moaning and groaning as I grab a shovel and window scraper in the mornings to remove the thick layer of snow on my car and driveway. But what about those who don’t own a car to scrape? And then I find myself complaining about making a quick trip to the grocery store when I would rather be inside, wrapped up in a blanket. But what about those who depend upon public transportation to get to the grocery store and find themselves not only cold, but spending twice the amount of time for an errand that takes only a short snippet out of my day?
Yes—this is the time of year when it’s easy to take for granted the things in life that make it simple. For me, I try to refocus on the many things of which I have to be thankful….and to reach out in some way to help those who don’t. It may be donating a coat, my time or money—anything to help me take a step back to reflect on the interconnectedness of life and the fact that while we may not look the same or even speak the same language, we are all on life’s journey together.
