ADVERTISING: ADVERTORIAL - Extravagance

Ready or not, here we go! Barreling headlong into the holiday season like a runaway toboggan on Cherry Hill during a snow day.

Do not get me wrong, I greatly appreciate this slower time of year, the overall cheer and well wishes, but a part of me experiences a bit of sadness. Bluntly, the TV commercials of the perfect family on Christmas morning excited about the new BMW wrapped in a big red bow on a snowy drive or the model wife opening the box containing diamond earrings make me cringe inside, just a little. I can’t quite relish in that kind of pursuit of abundance when I know another family may be worried about keeping the lights on and the kids fed. I am not promoting socialism, begrudging those who have worked hard or trying to push privilege guilt. Instead, I wish to shine a spotlight on so many good folks and organizations in our area that help those of less fortune, such as this very publication's “Christmas for All”

Last week, our management team was invited to tour the nonprofit Newby-ginnings in Post Falls and met the founder, Theresa Heart, and many cheerful volunteers. In July 2011, life forever changed when two military personnel arrived at her door with news no parent ever wants to hear. Her son, Nicholas Newby, had been killed by a powerful roadside bomb in Iraq. Despite deep grief that changed her, she used it as the catalyst to honor Nick and start a program that would help those returning from war. It was a new beginning.

During our tour of the facility, Theresa explained that they help over 250 veterans and their families per day! I honestly had to drift my eyes away from others several times due to the emotions I felt welling up. Now this is the kind of extravagance I not only can get on board with but feel delight about! This over the top, reckless and lavish generosity of poured out time and compassion with no expectation of return. We are all familiar with the phrase, “The reason for the season.” Many know this is in reference to the birth of Christ. It’s easy to say and even easier to just become a cliché. I salute those whose hands and feet actually put this to phrase to action. Thank you for your extravagant gift of love.

As always, thank you for following. Especially as we discuss not only proper tree care, but care of our community as well.

For further tree-related questions, quotes and consultations, give us a call today, 208-762-5800!

For more information on Grace Tree Service, check out our website at gracetreeservice.com.