Every year around this time, I hear the same old stories: “the holidays have gotten too commercial,” “we’ve become too materialistic,” “remember the good old days?” etc.

While I am occasionally prone to fits of nostalgia, I’m not one of those people who looks at the past through rose-colored glasses. As the song goes, “the good old days weren’t always good.”

As a matter of fact, there is some evidence to suggest that the global community is getting nicer every day. Recently, Professor Steven Pinker of Harvard University argued that “(v)iolence has been in decline over long stretches of history, and today we are probably living in the most peaceful moment of our species’ time on earth.” (Pinker, Steven. “A History of Violence,” The New Republic, March 19, 2007).

In that spirit of peace and harmony, we decided to devote some of our Gift Giving issue to ideas on how to give back to the community—and the world—this season. “12 Ways to Give Back this Holiday Season” will give you some great ideas to get started.

If you need some further encouragement, we’ve included articles about some inspirational people. “Takin’ It Global” takes us on local baker Daniel Leader’s journey to South Africa, where he helped to found the South African Whole Grain Bread Project, a significant step towards solving the problem of famine in the region.

And then there’s the story of Oneonta physician Dr. Ben Friedell, who, frustrated by the inequalities in the medical care system, gathered together a group of volunteers to found the Oneonta Free Clinic. Scheduled to open in 2008, the clinic will provide free medical care to those who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it.

Finally, if you want to give back but still party and shop at the same time, you can attend the fourth annual Wine Tasting at Windham Fine Arts in Windham. This event, which benefits the Adaptive Sports Foundation at Windham Mountain, features superb wines from Hudson Wine Merchants in Hudson paired with delicious hors d’oeuvres from Bistro Brie and Bordeaux in Windham. The party will be capped off with an auction of some of Windham Fine Arts’ most popular artists.

Of course, nothing beats a beautiful gift, especially if its handmade. Westkill artist Kittie Beletic produces whimsical cards, paintings, textiles and books that are sure to bring a smile to your face. Food and Farm Editor Karin Edmondson offers a great list of locally made products for the food lovers on your shopping list (“Keepin’ It Local”). And while you’re shopping, make a stop at Moose Crossing in Shokan. Owner Dennis Sharp scours the northeast and stocks his store to the rafters with the best handmade gifts he can find. While you’re shopping this year, buy local. Spend some time finding that perfect gift for that special someone.

Perhaps most importantly, don’t forget about those special someones you don’t know, those who could use a helping hand. If you can’t afford to donate money, try donating your time to an established organization. Or if that is too structured for you—we all do lead busy and sometimes chaotic lives—try a random act of kindness. The next time you’re passing over the Rip VanWinkle Bridge into Hudson, give the toll booth attendant an extra dollar for the car behind you. Offer an hour of babysitting so that new mom can take a relaxing bath. Cook dinner for your elderly neighbor. Help your neighbor dig her car out the next time it snows.

Even the simplest act of generosity can release great beauty into the world. That beauty will multiply the more its shared, so share freely.

See you in the mountains.

Peace.

Sincerely,


Sarah Taft
Managing Editor
tafts@catskillmtn.org