Guest blog by American Legion Auxiliary National President Kathy Dungan 

We all have heard the saying that Christmas is the time for giving, and that it is better to give than to receive. This comes from the Bible, which says in Acts 20:35 “…. it is more blessed to give than receive.”

As Auxiliary members, we give continuously throughout the year, and Christmastime is no different than any other time. We all have the “giving spirit.” The more we give and help others, the happier we feel. As members, we are compassionate and care for our veterans. By helping others, we are making a difference in the lives of others and making our communities a better place to live.

During this season, we sometimes get caught up in all of the hustle and bustle. We worry about what we are going to have for our Christmas meal. Is it going to be turkey, or ham, or both? But there are some that are less fortunate than us and they are worried if they will even have a meal on Christmas, or for that matter, will they have a warm place to stay? So, during this season, I would like to see all of us make a special effort to help others, especially the homeless and families with children, by either donating food and/or money to food banks, opening our post home for a free meal, donating to a homeless shelter, or any other ideas you might have.

Lastly, this Christmas season, as we work our mission helping our veterans, military, and their families, let’s remember what Barbara De Angelis said, “Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver.”

I wish you a wonderful Christmas season with much joy and happiness and may God bless you during the coming year!