Thinking of others during the holidays

What the holidays truly mean, and especially what they mean to young people, is often up for debate. Some maintain that Hanukkah, Christmas or Kwanzaa are a time for spirituality, unity and gratefulness, no matter which of the holidays you celebrate. Others believe that it is simply a time for materialism to rear its ugly head. However, there seems to be a balance between both at Lawrence High School during this time.
Lawrence High hosted its first holiday boutique on Dec. 6. It showcased beautiful homemade gifts from several local artisans. It was not only a great opportunity to recognize the talent of the people in the community, but to score thoughtful gifts for every taste and occasion. A portion of the proceeds went back to the school, helping to lower the cost of the 2015-2016 yearbook. Several students also gained community service hours by volunteering at the event.
The high school’s Italian club hosted their annual Toys For Tots drive. The toy drive was started several years ago by Lawrence alumna and Italian club member Maria Pulella. After having to spend the holidays in the hospital, she was inspired to bring a little joy to children in similar situations by starting the toy drive. Toys that are brand new and in their original packaging were collected in a large box in the club’s meeting room between Dec. 2 and 18.
The toys are then sorted, categorized and inspected by members of the Italian Club, to ensure they all meet the guidelines for donation. Then the toys are picked up by Pulella and taken to Cohen Children’s Medical Center. The toys are distributed to the kids there in the hopes of making their holidays away from home more comfortable and enjoyable. The toy drive has been a great success every year of its existence and continually garners support and donations from generous students and faculty.
Extremely talented, the Lawrence High music department also does not hesitate to add some holiday cheer to the school. The week before holiday break, the band, orchestra and chorus perform holiday songs in the morning as part of the annual hall-a-day performance. Each group picks a morning to perform and shows up in their best holiday garb, adding some needed spirit and joy to the dreary early mornings. The groups are performing songs in celebration of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, taking into account the diverse student population.
While many students are anticipating new video games or shoes, they tend not to lose sight of the more benevolent side of the holidays. They give to others in any way they can, whether that be the gift of an affordable yearbook, a toy for a sick child or simply the gift of music.