There are many blessings to celebrate during the Christmas season.  Not least are the story of Jesus’s humble birth, precious time with family and friends, and goodwill across the globe.  In giving thanks, we are reminded that the spirit of the holidays is much more about bestowing gifts than receiving them. 

Throughout history, countless observers have marveled at the generosity and compassion that Americans consistently extend to those in need.  Striving toward the common good has been a noble cause since this country’s founding, and it is a tradition we proudly uphold – not just at Christmastime but throughout the entire year. 

Contributions on the Uptick

A tough economy and its ensuing financial challenges have not diminished our benevolence.   According to this year’s Holiday Giving Poll by the American Red Cross, a majority of Americans remain committed to charitable giving – despite the fact that their own financial situations have not changed or may have grown worse in the last year. 

In fact, the Red Cross survey shows that almost seven in ten Americans believe it is more important to give to charity this year because of the economy, and nearly 80 percent would rather have a contribution donated in their honor than to receive a gift they do not need.  Overall, the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University reports that contributions have been on the uptick since 2009, following two years of sharp decline as a result of the Great Recession.

Small Acts, Big Change

Of course, monetary contributions are not the only way to lend a helping hand.  Stewardship comes in many forms, from serving meals to the homeless to donating blood to rebuilding homes after a disaster.  As the late Helen Keller reminded, “The world is moved along, not only by the mighty shoves of its heroes, but also by the aggregate of the tiny pushes of each honest worker.”  Even the smallest acts of kindness can amount to big change.

Programs such as “Operation Hero Miles” and “Hotels for Heroes,” for example, offer unique opportunities to give back.  They are designed to help lower the out-of-pocket expenses faced by families of wounded soldiers as they travel to see their loved ones.  With the creation of “Operation Hero Miles” in 2004, individuals are able to donate their airline miles to be used by these families.  “Hotels for Heroes” – which I recently introduced with Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) – works in much the same way with donated hotel reward points.  You can learn more about how to help at fisherhouse.org/programs/hero-miles.

Our Generous State

Mississippians are no strangers to good deeds, and we can be proud that our state has been repeatedly recognized as one of the most generous in the nation.  In the spring, we witnessed a swift outpouring of help after record-breaking river floods and devastating storms.  Nowhere was this more evident than in Smithville, where thousands rallied around the tornado-ravaged community to help pick up the pieces and put the lives of its residents back together again.

Like any year, 2011 has been one of trials and triumphs.  And yet, the strength and compassion of Americans continue to persevere no matter how difficult the circumstances.  As we welcome 2012, we can look forward with confidence that the shining light of this unparalleled altruism will not fade.  May you and your family have a very happy and blessed new year.  

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