COMMUNITY COMMENTARY: Make holidays happier for those in need

With the holiday season upon us, our attention turns to festive celebrations with family and friends, reflections on the year gone by, and a renewed sense of optimism for the year ahead.

I know that as I gather with my friends and loved ones this month, I will take time to remember those whose holidays will not be as safe or comfortable as our own.

As a veteran of the United States Army, I think daily of the countless brave military men and women from Orange County, California and the rest of our nation “” the men and women who are sacrificing to defend our nation’s security interests and to promote liberty, peace and prosperity.

Most have been away from their families for a long time, and they would love nothing more than to spend a few days relaxing at home.

I encourage each of you to keep our troops and their families in your thoughts and prayers during this holiday season and throughout the upcoming year.

You can help our brave soldiers by making contributions to organizations that support our troops.

Here are two of my favorites:

The United Services Organization (USO): www.uso.org

The American Red Cross: www.redcross.org/donate/ donate.html

I also hope that we will remember the less fortunate during the holidays, those who don’t have roofs over their heads, steady jobs or loving families to come home to. With busy lives, we often lose sight of the great truth that it is far more rewarding to give to those in need than it is to receive.

In that spirit, I encourage everyone who was fortunate enough to have a year filled with happiness and prosperity to give something back, whether making a financial contribution to your favorite charity “” or volunteering at a local shelter or rescue mission.

From my family to yours, I sincerely wish you Happy Holidays and a healthy New Year.

TOM HARMAN represents the 36th state Senatorial District.