Dear Editor,
I read the article in the Great Bend Tribune, “Giving the gift of time” (Dec. 24 issue). That article was especially relevant since many people tend to reach out and show gestures of kindness at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it’s never too late to “give the gift of time.”
Many people are shut-ins, ill, elderly, or children needing someone to read to them. Their needs continue long after the Christmas season ends. January and February are particularly harsh-weather months, when it pays to “check-in” with people, just to make sure of their well-being. We need to check with friends and neighbors to see if they are okay. Just spending a little bit of time with them can be a life-altering activity. It can also be a lifesaver. So, I hope more citizens will give “the gift of time,” especially in months which may be normally empty or lonely for others. Human compassion needs to extend year-around.

James A. Marples
Esbon