The following is from a series on self-care to help you through the holidays.  So here’s wishing you a cruelty free Christmas or joyous holiday!

Make a difference in the New Year. 

Almost every night when I lay my head down I thank Creator for my many blessings.  I often think about and pray for many beings that suffer while I lay down peacefully in my bed–the senseless use of animals being used in research, homeless people and animals, refuges, exploited children, people entrapped as slaves, the poor, animals in factory farms, and the ill and the lonely.  I ask for wisdom and willingness to use my gifts to serve the greater good.  I also ask God to give me a reprieve from my self-centered fear and greed.  As you think about the year ahead consider the many humanitarian organizations that strive to improve the lives of people and animals through-out the world.  How will you make a difference this year?