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Based upon the news material this newspaper has received thus far, it appears that the Christmas Spirit has really blossomed this year in the Roanoke-Chowan region.

And without a doubt there is so much more compassion out there that goes unrecognized.

There is an outpouring of compassion and love for those less fortunate every Christmas in the region as we rally around those in need, whether it’s providing food, clothing, and toys….and in some cases, all three.

The people of the Roanoke-Chowan region have done their best to help out, giving of their time, their experience and their money to help any whatever way they could.

To try to mention just the individuals, groups and organizations that have worked tirelessly to help people would take more space than is available here, and the people who have helped number in the hundreds.

As Christmas approaches, that spirit of giving ensures that every child in the area can partake in the material joy of the season. But it’s the generosity of local people that makes this an especially joyous Christmas.

While many struggle with financial hardship, these families are afforded the opportunity to keep the promise of Santa Claus alive in the imaginations of their children because of the outpouring of generosity.

Those people who have made this possible through their volunteerism and contributions have reinforced the true message of Christmas.

While the joy of finding a nice present from Santa is important to a child, the real joy comes from the reaffirmation of faith, charity, community, hope and love that define Christmas.

We can only imagine the broad smiles on the faces of these children when they arise from their slumber on Christmas morning and realize that Jolly Old St. Nick has paid them a visit. In the same sense, we are certain those broad smiles will be filled with the innocent faith of youth – a certainty that they are loved and that all is right with the world because it’s Christmas and Santa visited.

Those who made it possible for these children to retain that innocent trust deserve the highest praise imaginable – tribute far too great for this world. Your generosity, warm hearts and kind spirits are all of what is right with this world we live in today.

To both the recipients and givers, we wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas.

– The Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald