Happy December! It is hard to believe that we are wrapping up 2024. For many, this year has been a “mixed bag.” It’s been a year filled with both joy and sorrow, hope and frustration, laughter and tears. Some doors closed; others opened. It was a year filled with the inevitable ebbs and flows that make life life and, ready or not, comes with the privilege of being alive.
I recently came across a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson that seemed appropriate for this Holiday season. He writes, “Rings and jewels are not gifts, but apologies for gifts. The only gift is a portion of thyself…therefore the poet brings his poem; the shepherd, his lamb; the farmer, corn; the miner, a stone; the painter, his picture; the girl, a handkerchief of her own sewing.”
As I think back on the year, I think of the many ways that you – year-round – have gifted the Andover Public Library. You show up and participate in our various programs. You “ooooooooh and awwwwwww” at the work of our talented quilters and photographers. You share your enthusiasm and smiles when guest speakers present. You share your love for books with one another. You smile and welcome strangers. Members of our Friends of the Library, support us through monetary donations and volunteering to strengthen, for example, our Summer Reading program. In the community, shop owners, restaurants, and merchants contribute to enhance and strengthen the various programs we provide. You come in on a regular basis and share your love for reading with your children and grandchildren. You offer encouragement to me and the rest of the staff. Year-round, you give a “portion of thyself.” And for that I am grateful.
As we begin to wrap up this year, it’s probably good to think about the many ways each of us can give gifts to our families and community. Extend a heart-felt apology. Forgive. Volunteer to serve those in need. Support, encourage, and thank those who serve to help make your community or family grow and improve. Listen. Be kind. Share a smile with a stranger. Wave “hello” to a neighbor. Drop a line or call someone “just because.” Encourage someone who’s discouraged or fearful. Invite someone to the library. Pick up a book that will help you become a better you so you can better share your gifts and talents with others. Thank the library staff for all their hard work.
Thanks for the many gifts you offer us – and the rest of the community – day in and day out. Plan on making it a great month. I look forward to talking with you again at the start of the new year!
Sincerely,
Nancy Logan, Director