By Wilson Cherry

As we celebrate the holiday season, we look forward, as we have given thanks for our abundant blessings throughout the year. Spending time with family and friends sharing delicious desserts and meals while exchanging gifts and pleasantries is always special.

Having endured the stress of a global pandemic, the devastating effect of hurricane Helene, while floods and wild fires ravage America’s heartland and the West Coast, we are at a crossroads in our history. Issues pertaining to crime, illegal immigrants, terrorism and poverty have perpetuated a major political divide in our country. 

Our concerns will not simply go away as a result of the recent elections. America has long been championed as a melting pot for diversity in race, religion, ethnicity and political ideology. Currently, the political and social climate is radically divided and in a turbulent state of concern. The idea of being independent and moderate carries a heightened meaning for every marginalized person who has yearned for equity and equality. 

As we assess America’s plight in world affairs, it is time for us to come together as “We the People,” and treat each other with kindness, compassion and respect. Each and every day, combating the ills of homelessness, substance abuse, crime and poverty is a major task for all of us.

This year, as we survey the major concerns in our community, it’s time that we begin working toward finding a solution to our many problems. Simple acts of kindness can go a long way toward healing our differences. Whether it’s through a heartfelt financial contribution or token gift, volunteering your time, talents or other resources means a lot. Visiting a hospital or nursing home, picking up the telephone to check on a disabled or elderly person can have a tremendous impact on your wellbeing and sense of self-worth. 

When we demonstrate the spirit of giving, it is a true blessing to bathe the recipient and giver alike. As we look to share our harvest this year, it is important that we give some consideration to our local programs and efforts to help others in our communities who are in need. 

It may be the Salisbury Post Christmas Happiness fund, the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign or the United Way that aids so many non-profits and worthy causes. It is imperative that those of us who can give make an effort to share our bounties with other less fortunate agencies and community programs such as Rowan Helping Ministries, Meals on Wheels, Man Up Monday, Gemstones and Compass Leadership Academy are just a few of our community treasures. 

As we express our thanks for living in a country that lets freedom ring, we should be mindful and pray for the wellbeing of our first responders, law enforcement officers and especially our active and retired military men and women who serve and protect our country so gallantly. As we offer our appreciation and gratitude, we are also blessed to have three outstanding institutions of higher education in Catawba College, Livingstone College and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College which enriches our academic, cultural and social standards in our community. We also should be mindful of the many other cultures and religions that emphasize giving at Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, and have elements of charitable giving in their doctrines. 

This year, as I count my many blessings, I have a special sense of appreciation and gratitude for all of the individuals, organizations and corporate donors who have so graciously donated and supported our expansion at Rowan Vocational Opportunities, Inc. These kind contributions will be a major catalyst for enhancing the quality of life for our consumers with developmental and intellectual disabilities. 

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year.

God bless America.