The presents have been unwrapped. The trees will soon be coming down. The festive decorations will be boxed up for another year. Christmas is over, but that doesn’t mean we have to forget about some of the emotions and giving spirit that make the holiday so special.

Each year in Lawrence County thousands of people in dozens of organizations come together to reach out within the community and help those in need. Families without food are fed. Children without toys are able to wake up with something special under the tree on Christmas morning. Men women who have faced significant hardships through the year are able to have their burdens lifted, if even just for a little while.

This year was no different.

It may be unrealistic to think this community spirit can be carried on throughout the year but, if we can capture even a part of that compassion, Lawrence County will be better for it long after Christmas has passed.

The Christmas season, in part because the holiday itself is based on the love and compassion of Jesus Christ, brings out the best in most of us. It is only human to allow that to be fleeting.

But love for our neighbors and fellow human beings is timeless and extends to all the seasons.