By Suzanne White
Holiday Helpers of Rochester Hills
On Christmas I am blessed to be able to watch my grandchildren as they open their gifts from Santa, Mom and Dad and us. To be with family throughout the holidays and am honored by our friends and those we have met along the way. I am so very proud of my daughter Kristi and her husband, Adam who have worked so hard and raising 3 beautiful and respectful children.
Many times I reflect on my own childhood Christmases. What great times and traditions we had and have now, thankfully, the pleasure of creating new ones with family, old and new friends. What memories we make every second when we take the time to look. It is in those memories when I think of those who have left us, who are sick and those who are alone. It is a reminder to me, one, that I do not reflect enough, the tremendous awe I have of those who protect and serve, those who put their lives on the line each and every day. I have the utmost respect for those men and women of the armed forces, our sheriff’s departments and our fire departments.
In our wonderful city of Rochester Hills, we have those who not only put it all out there, but volunteer for so many charities, ours included, to make memories that only they can make in the life of a child. Children who may choose the same path as you, children who may make the difference in a life of another child, children who will honor you as I do. Those children never forget what you have given, and we will never forget.
It is so simple to say thank you. It is quite another to show what is in your heart. To all of our family, friends and to those who protect us and serve us, Merry Christmas to you and to your family. May the new year bring you health, happiness and may we all have peace in the new year to come.
Merry Christmas to all. May you have peace, joy and laughter in 2012.
