Growing up in Reserve, I had the privilege of attending good schools with great teachers. I spent seven years at St. Peter Catholic School and graduated from Leon Godchaux High School.

In the 1940s and early 1950s, St. John was a great place in which to grow up.

Christmas was really special. It seemed like Jesus was really the reason for the season.

I remember one of my favorite teachers, Sister Evangelist, who taught me in the seventh grade. It was 1947, and one of my friends had just lost his father.

She shared that the Christmas season, with all its merriment and excitement, can be one of the saddest times for many families.

Without mentioning my friend’s family, I knew she was directing her comments to him.

She said that we should reach out to people in our community who have lost loved ones and also to those who are sick and lonely. I’ve often thought of the message she gave 67 years ago, but this year I’m more conscious of it. I’ve lost a few friends this year and have many who are battling life-threatening sicknesses.

It’s easy for me to enjoy all the blessings that God has blessed my family with.

This year I’m grateful, but I hope to focus on families who are going through trials and whose loved ones passed away.

I plan to visit and make calls to people who need encouragement and let them know that regardless of their situation, God is still in control, and He is the Great Comforter.  

I need to reach out, not because some people need me, but I need to do what Jesus has called us to do. If we do just a little, we may ease the pain of others and feel better about ourselves.          

If you have any questions, or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477 or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.