Contributed by Randi Perlman
Yes, ‘tis the season…of holiday parties and homecomings to plan, of making new memories as we gather with clan, of family traditions and recipes to share, of shopping and wrapping and toasting good cheer! It’s a time to be thankful for all that we have, to pay homage to the richness of life, and to treat all those around us with kindness and love.
I began writing this with the desire to proclaim my gratitude once more for all those folks who pitched in to assist with, and be supportive of, our two recent fundraising events: the Recycle Revival Music Festival at Settlers Bay Golf Course in late September, and the Mat-Su Orchestra’s Veterans Day Concert at the Glenn Massay Theater in November. At Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS), we can’t thank everyone enough for the incredible turn-outs at both events, for the remarkable display of talent, and for the generosity of spirit and funds that helped create two superbly successful events!
As I wrote, my mind kept drifting to the bigger picture. I couldn’t help but think of the multitudes of non-profit organizations in our Valley, the meaningful missions and visions of each and every one of them, and the way our Valley community never fails to dig deep to help support them all. It was then that I realized it was time for a ‘BIG PICTURE THANKS’ to our entire Mat-Su community for rising to the occasion whenever needed; for reaching out to help those less fortunate; for welcoming with open arms the new and the different; for donating over and over again to the many fundraising auctions that run throughout the season; for cooking and baking to provide goods for others to enjoy while raising money for the many organizations that work so hard for others; and for happily supporting the missions and causes most meaningful to each one of us.
Many communities, indeed hopefully most, around the country and the world pull together in times of need or tragedy to do what they can for each other. From wildfires to earthquakes, high winds to flooding, and from one end of this enormous borough to the other, our huge slice of paradise has had its share of unfortunate situations in recent years. But our own, mighty Mat-Su Community is there for each other all year round. The large, diverse, intriguing group of unique characters that we embody, all of us who call the Mat-Su Valley home, rises to any occasion, be it to celebrate or console, with a steady, strong show of support & encouragement, to help our friends and neighbors grow and spread their wings, and to lift each other up when we stumble.
The holiday season is a time to be joyful, and hopeful that life will continue to get only better. This year, as we gather with loved ones to celebrate good tidings with group hugs, it’s OK for each of us to give ourselves a little hug, as well, for being part of the BIG PICTURE and creating a caring, loving and supportive community, one of unbounded strength, love and indomitable spirit; it’s a community I feel blessed and proud to be part of. Thank you to ALL for making it so, and Happy, Merry whatever holiday[s] you celebrate…!!!
