Miller Minutes
What is the best Christmas gift you have ever received?
Pondering this question, a few things stick out to me: a sled, concert tickets, a pair of green Converse shoes.
But this leads to another question: What is the best gift you have ever given?
I feel this question sparked a whole slew of memories. There is nothing compared to the rush you get when you give someone a gift that they’ll cherish or use. That extra shot of dopamine is the reason people get really generous around the holidays. You’re already feeling good, so you contribute to someone who may not be.
Christmastime always reminds me that gift giving is an act appreciated all year long. People always need help, and it can’t always be fixed with a set dollar amount.
Just because Christmas implies an extra dose of kindness and generosity doesn’t mean it's the only time you can show people you care about them. Nonprofits always need volunteers; food pantries always need food. Children always need coats, mittens and someone to tell them they’re being good.
In light of this season, think of someone, a group of people or an organization who could use help, and make it your mission to be the extra hand they need. And don’t do it for a rush of good feelings for yourself. Do it selflessly.
Psych yourself up for this time of giving by attending one of the following events. They’re sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.
The Butler Orchestra Program performs its annual Winter Concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, in the Butler Intermediate High School auditorium. Students in sixth through 12th grades will perform popular holiday hits for free admission. It is followed by the Butler Rock Orchestra performing hits by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Participants in the GetFitFamilies Reindeer Race at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, will get to warm up and munch on snacks by a warm fire at 402 E. Beaver St., Zelienople. For information and registration, visit runsignup.com.
St. Conrad Roman Catholic Church is planning a Breakfast with Santa event in the social hall, 125 Buttercup Road, at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16. There also will be photo opportunities with the big man himself, cookie decorating and other festivities. Purchase tickets at allsaintsbutler.org/breakfast-with-santa.
The community is invited to experience a bluegrass Christmas special at the Keystone Opry’s performance at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, in the Butler Little Theatre, 1 Howard St. The band Middleground and other special guests will be rocking around the tree!
The Kiski Valley Community Band is performing a Christmas concert at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 409 Sarver Road in Buffalo Township, at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17.
Auditions for the Sing Hosanna! production of “The Sound of Music” are happening Sunday and Monday, Dec. 17 and 18. For information on times, audition materials and more, visit singhosanna.org.
Chicora Alliance Church is inviting families to experience Bethlehem at the “Miracle of Jesus” event at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17. The event features multisensory experiences that transport you back in time to when Jesus was born. For more information, call the church at 724-445-3220.
Mars Area High School Student Council will offer a Cookies with Santa event from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, in the school’s cafeteria. The free event will include pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, holiday crafts, games and, of course, milk and cookies.
Tickets are available for Hobnob Theatre’s performance of “Mr. Bob Cratchit’s Merry Christmas Carol Sing-Along and Variety Show” at 1 p.m. Dec. 23 in the Penn Theatre on Main Street. This is the only performance that is not sold out yet!
