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from the editor
I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness
doubled by wonder. ~G.K. CHESTERTON
True happiness is a by-product of an effort to make someone else happy. We would be a rare person in this world if, when asked if we would like to make other people happy, would not respond with a great big “Yes.” If we were asked “How then?”, many of us would probably answer by collecting toys, or visiting the sick and elderly, or filling shoe boxes with goodies for less fortunate children. The approaching season urges us to count our blessings and inspires us to want to give and to give thanks in any way we can.
As I have spent the year being happily blessed by you, I return the happy blessings untoyou. In winter, time slows down long enough for me to fully embrace the gifts I’ve been given. I humbly thank the One from whom all blessings flow. Eight years ago He led me, with my heart exposed, to create The SUN by-the-sea. I reflect back to April 1st, 2004, and realize that little did I know then, all I was about to receive. The initial reaction from readers absolutely wowed me. And since then, 42 issues later, the correspondences continue to overflow my inbox.
“Thank you Dorothy for answering the call to pursue your dream. You are touching so many lives in a positive spirit. What an awesome gift you give to all who read The Sun by-thesea!” . . .Can’t wait for my paper but I need two, one for me and one for my sister. We love the SUN!. . . It is very special. . . Thank you, I always look forward to your editor letter, it’s one of my favorite parts. . . I love all the quotes at the tops of the pages! . . . Keep up the great work! . . . It is ‘all things’ Wildwood!”
Notes of encouragement like these gratefully serve as ‘wind beneath my wings’, carrying me through the busy season of publishing! What I’m also so thankful for, is receiving your personal writings and old photographs that you dig out for me. I just love to hear your “Wildwood” stories. Connecting closely with so many of you has changed my life. I want you to know that the real blessing is that I get to share your stories with everyone who loves reading them in The Sun. In other words, your blessings have enabled me to bless others.
I’ve learned something very valuable over these last 8 years~ that vulnerability is the birthplace of joy, creativity, belonging and love. And the world is truly a more beautiful place when you let down your guard and allow yourself to be transparent. You should go and try it and send me your personal Wildwood related story:) I’ll be looking forward to reading them and publishing them along with your old photos!
In this season of abundance, I offer up two of the most profound words I know, “Thank You.” To everyone who has helped make The SUN what it is today ~ in another reader’s words... The Best Wildwoods Paper EVER! . . .Very inspiring, informative, and downright enjoyable!
In the midst of soup kitchens and nursing homes, feeding the hungry and bringing smiles through singing carols, and giving gifts ~ may we turn our hearts to the Reason we celebrate in the first place. What better way to spread happiness than to wrap our hope around the lives of those with needs greater than ours. Happiness always looks small while you hold it in your hands, but let it go, and you learn at once how big and precious it is.
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From a heart full of thanks,
Publisher, editor, and artist
The SUN by-the–sea, , WILDWOOD, NJ |
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