To Whom It May Concern:
This website brought to you in part by the following sponsor:
Find out how to advertise here - Email us! [email protected]
Christmas in Altamont
The evening began with snow on the ground, a chill in the air and laughter coming from the old city hall. Many families new and old filled the building once again for another Christmas in Altamont, a tradition that has been observed for several years. Upon entering the door I noticed familiar faces, Christmas decorations and the smell of hot chocolate filling the air. There were cookies of every kind and gifts filled four tables. I saw two new bikes one for a boy and a girl carefully placed near the old Christmas tree. As I began to look around the room I couldn’t help but notice that some of the elderly were no longer there and that the younger generation with their children now had filled their place. It was a time of reminiscing, meeting new neighbors and enjoying old friends.
As the evening progressed Santa entered the room bearing candy canes and placed the ever so eager little ones upon his knee. I could hear the children giggle as they waited impatiently in line. I heard whispers of dolls, bikes and toys that he would surely bring these good girls and boys. Their eyes would light up as he carefully placed each on his knee though there was the occasional cry or two from the tiniest of these.
Soon Santa made his exit and it was now time for the drawings which included bikes, watches, jewelry, kitchen items, a quilt, tools, gift certificates, toys, a ham, a turkey and more. Items and gifts were donated by area merchants from Altamont, Gallatin and Winston along with the Altamont Methodist church, Altamont City Counsel and several individuals from Altamont. Once again these selfless few had decided to be a part of Christmas in Altamont. Each of these were willing to give or do whatever they could to help make the season a little brighter for someone else. As the evening came to a close and treat bags were collected upon leaving that old place, it was clear that it had been a time of celebration, certain expectation and for many, jubilation!
To all who made Christmas in Altamont a great success, your selfless kindness and giving will never be forgotten. I know that your generosity over the years has brought joy to many. May God bless you all for your support and contributions.
As I sit here I can’t help but wonder if that evening didn’t bring a little more joy and hope to some who have suffered bitter hardships. I know there are many not just in our town but yours too, that will wake up this year without much if anything under their tree. This year will we try to imagine what our neighbor’s suffering must be like as they grieve silently behind closed doors? Have you experienced tears of disappointment in a young child’s eyes? Have you known the heartache of being alone and not being remembered on Christmas day? Will we consider those who will sob heartfelt cries on their first Christmas without a loved one by their side? Once again this little town with the giving few can remind us all of the joy of giving and the true reason for the season. How important it is that we as a community consider others not just at Christmas but all through the year. Take a minute to think about your local food pantry, those few dollars in a bucket as you enter your favorite store, that box designated for toy donations and what it will mean to those who are struggling this Christmas. Think of others by giving your time, yourself and your resources. Make a difference to the sick, needy, widows or orphans. You can make this a Christmas they’ll never forget.
Merry Christmas
Tessa Lollar