Holiday Hype?

Today, I had someone withdraw from our newsletter stating that there was too much holiday hype among other unflattering comments. I had to chuckle. She had signed up for the newsletter herself, we didn't solicit her. My conclusion is she never physically visited the store and spent a few minutes talking to us. She has not experience our passion and love of fiber or the gift of giving a little of ourselves to each other.

Yes, we are a business. There are aspects of that side of Iron Horse that means we need to "advertise" some of the items and services we offer. We are most fortunate to have people from all races and religions visit our store. We have always been very respectful of peoples individual beliefs. If you know me at all, I will not allow the Christmas tree, the menorah or any other holiday decoration be displayed until after Thanksgiving, unlike other places where "holiday" music was playing in September. We do offer suggestions in our newsletter for gift giving ideas because no matter what your beliefs may be, it is a time of giving of one's self and a small materialistic gift might be how one expresses themself. Many people make gifts to give to love ones-family and friends.

There is nothing like the joy of watching someone open a small token from you, wanting to bring a little joy into their life. I received many tokens today. One was from a dear friend who recently had a life altering event happen to her and her family. She was having a bad day. She was in the store and as she left, she hugged me. I was most touched. We have hugged before but there was something about this hug that meant something special to both of us. Another one of those small tokens today was from someone, who through visiting our store has become my friend. She is loving, giving of herself and comes a distance to visit about once a month. Sometimes, we are busy with new "friends" to be able to sit and enjoy each other's company while she is here, but she has also given her heart to others in our coop. She always offers to help anyone in any way she can.

We have built a community. A place where we care about each other. It is not about the commercial aspects of the store. As we go forth preparing for this season of joyful celebration remember, a hug, a thank you and even a concern about a love one goes a long way. Thank you to all of you who have made Iron Horse in Natick a home away from home.

Happy Chanukkah to our Jewish friends as you celebrate the first night. Let the "oil" burn on.