Commentary by Aleah M. Castrejon, Mountaineer editor
What is the most precious gift you can give?
Time — it’s the one thing you can never get enough of or make more of, it’s also the most valuable.
With the season to be thankful upon us again, maybe we should also be thinking of ways we can give back.
You can make more money, watch countless hours of your favorite show or visit your favorite shopping center. But when time is gone, it can never be recovered.
While giving your time can take some effort, remember those with whom you share your valuable time will remember it longer than a game or a new pair of shoes will last.
Whether you turn your time and attention to the children after a long day’s work, visit with grandma and grandpa, take your dog to the dog park or donate your time to a shelter, you will inevitably remember the memories made over anything else.
It can be easy to ask the kids to play outside while you sit and rest in silence, tell yourself that you will see the grandparents on a day less busy or simply put off today what you can do tomorrow.
But one day the kids will be grown, grandma and grandpa will not be around to share their stories and our “fur-children” already have a limited number of years. And what about the many people who need someone so giving?
In Colorado Springs, there seems to be an abundance of need for volunteers: animal shelters; youth centers; homeless shelters; working with elderly, young children or teens. There is something for everyone.
This year, choose to give the most precious gift.
Whether you are single or have a big family, there is so much to do. Make it a family affair and volunteer to read to children; visit a local pet shelter and help stock food, or just give the cats and dogs some snuggles.
Some volunteer organizations take a little time to get registered for, so act now.
Those who don’t want to go far can reach out to Fort Carson Volunteer Services Manager Joey Bautista, Army Community Service (ACS) at 526-1082 or 526-4590. Stop in at the ACS building at 6303 Wetzel Ave., building 1526, to see how you can donate your time, either short or long term.
With the holidays quickly approaching, count your blessings, be thankful and give your time.