As we begin to say farewell to the memories of this past year, and welcome in 2025, the crowds, traffic and festive spirit seems to permeate the air. From the beautiful glow of holiday lights to the delicious scents of so many yummy dishes, it’s a time for reflection, anticipation and new beginnings. For many, the New Year commemorates a moment to share warm wishes and heartfelt messages with loved ones. Whether you will be drinking your favorite alcoholic beverage, non-alcoholic or maybe even hot chocolate while cuddling up under a warm blanket, or even celebrating at a loud and amazing New Year’s party, celebrating “Happy New Year 2025” and offering greetings to friends and family alike have become a long-cherished tradition.
For those out there not as lucky to have people to celebrate, know there are people out there willing to be there and help you in any way you allow them. Some people feel ashamed because of the situation they have found themselves in, but whether it was a result of something they did or did not do, right now, that should not matter. There are so many resources out there willing to assist people in what can be long journey of getting back on their feet. The colder months are still ahead of us and there are too many people out there on our streets, in our parks and other landmarks in need of dire help finding warmth and support. For these less fortunate people both on the street and in temporary housing through a shelter, maybe this last year was not easy for them, maybe it felt for them like challenges just kept piling up one after the other. When pthers help these people in need, it not only offers materialistic relief, but also a bit of a message that maybe tells them that they still matter, they made it through another year, defying the challenges, they can be resilient and make it through. When they do this there will be someone to support and help build them back up.
They may feel as though there are still so many challenges ahead and they will never make it, or seeing that so many people reached out a helping hand through donating supplies to assist them, clothing and other items can allow them to see that they made it this far, they did not give up, despite the ongoing challenges, they made it further, and they can keep going because they did not give up!
Yes, life can feel questionable and tough at times. Life can throw so many curveballs, and resiliency gives people the strength to make it through time and again. Having to make tough decisions, get through those setbacks, even when it seems impossible and getting through those moments that test all our patience, it can be easy to feel discouraged and hopeless. Maybe people ended up on the street because of financial problems, because they lost their job or their addiction got the best of them and they were evicted, it should not matter why someone got where they are, just that they need our help to move ahead. Everyone has challenges and habits that can get in the way of living their everyday lives, why should people who end up on the street or in a shelter not have the same opportunities as everyone else.
So maybe as the old is on the way out, we can all find the energy and love in our hearts to somehow make a difference in our homeless residents in our town, city, or anywhere they need us. Whether you buy a case of water and hand it out, a breakfast sandwhich, or even blankets (especially this time of year) and hand them out to people on the street—doing something or helping out in someway, is better than nothing.
Together we can make a significant impact in 2025 when we work toward the same goals. Wishes for Our Warriors next collection will be starting in January for Valentine’s Day. We are hoping we can collect blankets, cards, socks, mens boxers, hot chocolate, Quaker Oats 5 min Grits, womens underwear, adult t-shirts, handwarmers, hats and gloves for those residents in need.
Celebrate the coming of what will hopefully be a fantastic new year. And if you can, lend some support to help someone else’s days be brighter too. Thank you for your support and best wishes for a Happy New Year 2025 from all of us at Life of Pretty!!
