As we anxiously look forward to the New Year, we are indeed fortunate and grateful that we can rely on our resilience and positive attitudes, as members of our wonderful, beloved community.

This upcoming year presents us an opportunity for enriching our lives and the lives of others. This opportunity can be achieved through acts of kindness and selflessness.

I want to share a letter I received, which exemplifies how acts of kindness can enrich the lives of others.

“I don’t know where to start in thanking you. I’m grateful for kind people like yourself in this world, at a time of need. A complete stranger helped me without even knowing me. This truly is something special. Know that what you’ve done has changed a mother and her four kids’ lives around. You were a big help in the escape of a dangerous situation. In some ways, [you] maybe even saved a life. You may not know the importance of what you did, but it was a start to the biggest change of our lives. My journey is still not complete, but because of your kindness, we were able to get out and figure it out as we go. You really must be someone special, to help someone you don’t even know. I really am truly grateful for people like you, and only hope to be able to pay it forward someday. Thank you so much again. You were an angel in my world, and you really helped out a family in need at their worst. You truly are appreciated.”

This letter, I believe, is written to all the members of our community, who seek out the opportunity to help others improve their lives in time of crisis. How fortunate we are to live in a community, where in the words of Ghandi, “mutual courtesy and respect is the foundation of culture.”

A smile and hearty hello are welcome gifts to friends, neighbors and visitors. Remember to make them feel welcome. Volunteering is always a welcome gift. Hospitals, animal shelters and schools are very appreciative of additional pairs of hands. These acts of kindness strengthen our community and prepare us for the future!

Please allow this quote from George Eliot to be our guiding words for the coming year, “What do we live for, if not to make the world less difficult for each other.”

Happy Holidays from the mayor, town council and our dedicated employees!

Mayor Jim Auxer