"Voinovich's View" - A Humbling Christmas Season

Statement

Christmas is the time when Janet and I, like millions of families all over Ohio, take a moment to reflect on our Heavenly Father's grace. This year however, I know many Ohio families are facing the most difficult economic uncertainty this country has witnessed in decades. They are struggling just to pay the bills and maintain their quality of life, let alone thinking about buying Christmas presents for their children and loved ones.

As we pause to celebrate this Holy Season, our thoughts are with our brothers and sisters who have experienced one of the most difficult years of their lives, and may also face a bleak new year. Though the economy is stabilizing, the process is slow and met with much sadness along the way. Even in the midst of this glorious holiday season, I would be remiss if I failed to recognize the significant challenges facing Ohioans every day.

For those of us that are holding our own, may we thank God for the blessings he has bestowed on us and let us remember the words of Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understandings. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he shall direct your path."

I know that when we put our trust in God and maintain a positive outlook, regardless of what life seems to be handing us, we will find peace and happiness. For those of us who are fortunate enough to celebrate this Christmas in the same fashion as years past, may the words of baby Jesus ring in our ears: "What you do for the least of my brothers you do unto me."

This scripture represents the greatest gift we can give to Christ this year -- love. I firmly believe that the greatest way to bring hope into the hearts of the downtrodden is by loving -- and in turn serving -- those around you. One of Ohio's greatest blessings is its fruitfulness of churches, non-profits and organizations throughout this great state that work year-round to help make Christmas Day just a little brighter.

My mother would often quote Sir James Barrie, saying "those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves."

Help bring a little sunshine into somebody's Christmas Day by volunteering to deliver candy grams, writing Christmas cards, or singing carols to those who are currently in your district's hospitals and nursing homes. It is these simple gestures of peace and hope that will brighten the hearts of so many this holiday season.

And if you happen to find yourself in need, please know that the spirit of Christmas is alive and well. It is my prayer that every Ohio family will be remembered and taken care of this year as we reflect on the birth of Christ. Let us fill the season with love, good health and good will towards all. If we all give a little, we can accomplish extraordinary things together.

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