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Monday, 23 December 2013

You Have Been Here For Me And I Am Here For You.

The wind chimes.  The music of nature muffled by the cold night air.  And yet, the chimes do ring of the hope I sense for the world.  There is a warmth in the cold night air.  There is a warmth I sense from you.

I was online most of last Christmas Day.  This year, I'm going to be here again to reach out to others.

 I truly understand how difficult and lonely a day Christmas can be.  Thus, if you're struggling to cope, need someone to talk to, I will be here for you.  If you just want a time out from a hectic, social day, I will be here for you.

Be assured, if you do wish to contact me, your anonymity is guaranteed.  Please take into account that my time zone is Greenwich Mean Time and I might not be able to respond immediately.  The following email address is the easiest way to contact me,  whitecap79@hotmail.co.uk   
Together, we can make a difference.  Let's take a reflective moment and think.  Think of those whose biggest concern on Christmas Day is whether they'll have something to eat and a roof over their heads.  I know how blessed I am.

As Penny sits snugly looking at the dazzling lights, she wishes you, my son Tristan wishes you and I wish you, a peaceful, hopeful, blessed Christmas.

You have been here for me and I am here for you.
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64 comments:

  1. Elephant's Child23 December 2013 at 06:51

    Oh Gary. You are such a lovely human. Thank you for being you.

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  2. Carol23 December 2013 at 06:56

    Gary, I heard on the radio today that 19000 kids phoned the Kids Helpline here in Australia over Christmas. Why does this shock me?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Carol23 December 2013 at 06:57

      That was 19000 phone calls last year ~ silly me ~ should have been more specific.

      Delete
  3. Teresa Ashby23 December 2013 at 08:21

    You are a very generous and giving soul, Gary - I hope you, Penny and Tristan have a peaceful and happy Christmas x

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  4. Empty Nest Insider23 December 2013 at 08:46

    Gary, You make all of our days shine brighter, and the fact that you continue to make yourself available on one of the most emotional days of the year is extremely heartwarming. You really are one of the most generous people I know. Wishing you, Tristan, and Penny a very merry Christmas!

    Julie

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  5. Old Kitty23 December 2013 at 10:26

    Lovely Gary and Penny and Tristan!! Thank you for being so wonderful! I feel great comfort knowing that one is not alone especially at this time! Thank you! Have a brilliant and peaceful Christmas! Enjoy the lights and the chimes. Take care
    x

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  6. Alex J. Cavanaugh23 December 2013 at 10:45

    Gary, if only everyone was as caring and giving as you. You are going to make a big difference to someone on Christmas Day.
    You've already made a difference to us.
    Merry Christmas.

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  7. Jeremy [Retro]23 December 2013 at 10:59

    You are a cool person, period!

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  8. Rum-Punch Drunk23 December 2013 at 11:00

    Gary, that's one of the nicest and kindest things a person can do. And that's to be there for someone else no matter what. You truly are a wonderful guy and despite what you've been going through, you always find time for others.

    I hope 2014 will a blessed year for you, and all the desires of your heart are met. I'm just so glad that I met you here in the blogging world. Good guys are hard to find. Have a great time Gary, Tristan and Penny.

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  9. Anonymous23 December 2013 at 11:34

    You are a dear soul to think of others in need at this time of year and, for that matter, all year round. May the three of you have a warm and loving Christmas and only good things in the New Year to come.

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  10. L. Diane Wolfe23 December 2013 at 12:18

    What a wonderful thing to do for others, Gary. Merry Christmas and bless you!

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  11. Rob Z Tobor23 December 2013 at 13:02

    Merry Christmas Mr G,Penny and Tristan . . . . I wish you well

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  12. JoJo23 December 2013 at 13:49

    That's so kind of you Gary. Yes, Christmas can be a very bittersweet time of year. I hope you have a very peaceful and happy holiday! :)

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  13. Pat Hatt23 December 2013 at 14:09

    A great thing to do at your zoo, hope your Christmas is great too

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  14. Jenny Woolf23 December 2013 at 15:22

    What a lovely post. What a great person you are. I hope that Christmas is rewarding and worthwhile for you, and I am sure it will make a big difference to the lives of others too. Peace.

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  15. Jemi Fraser23 December 2013 at 15:26

    You always do such wonderful things for our world Gary! I hope you, Penny & Tristan enjoy a wonderful holiday and that the new year brings you all joy and peace. Take care!

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  16. All Consuming23 December 2013 at 15:27

    Ah you are a kind soul, you understand how hard it can be for some and help them - much like T.E.C does. The world would be a far better place if twere populated with the likes of you fine folks. *smiles and hugs.

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  17. cleemckenzie23 December 2013 at 16:47

    Thanks, Gary. It is a time when a lot of us are dealing with very trying life situations and yet see the FaLaLaLa all around. I ask myself, "Is everybody else that happy? Am I the only one moping around and wishing Deck The Halls would just stop playing?"

    Anyway, it's great to read your post. It made me smile and feel quite good. Here's to warmth and cheer on the subdued side, but heartfelt. I'm off to think pawsitive now.

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  18. MunirGhiasuddin23 December 2013 at 17:36

    Your post just made me cry.
    We are not Christians but our neighbours did not exclude us from the activities. Our kids got gifts from Santa just the same as other kids. We all pitched in and paid for the gifts. Now our kids are grown and Mr.Rifkin has left for Florida with his wife, but we look back at those days with fondness. I do feel for those who are excluded for some reason or the other.
    Our own Holidays of Ramazan are based on the realities of hunger and we fast and the money saved goes to charities.
    It is nice of you to be there for those of us who is not feeling happy. God Bless. Take care.

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  19. Debra She Who Seeks23 December 2013 at 18:19

    That's a beautiful thing to do for those who find Christmas such a difficult holiday. Blessings to you, your son and of course to Penny.

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  20. Maurice Mitchell23 December 2013 at 18:24

    That's awesome Bro. You're a real inspiration and help to all in need. ***Fist bump***

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  21. Manzanita23 December 2013 at 18:26

    That is magnificent to be on call Christmas day. I'm sure you will help many a weary traveler find their path. You go, Gary.
    Blessings to you on this special Christmas as the whole world is waking up.

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  22. Shannon Lawrence23 December 2013 at 20:09

    What a beautiful thing to do, Gary! Have a wonderful week, and thank you for being you.

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  23. CraveCute23 December 2013 at 20:40

    You are doing a wonderful thing for others, bless your heart! Merry Christmas to all of you!

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  24. Anonymous23 December 2013 at 20:46

    So thoughtful. I would expect nothing less.

    And may I also wish you, your son, and the gorgeous (yet modest) internet star a Very Merry Christmas :)

    Love and hugs from Down Under and Off to the Side xoxo

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  25. Unknown23 December 2013 at 21:08

    I might stop by after the Doctor Who Christmas special...
    I don't want to see Matt Smith go!
    You are an inspiration to us all.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Tina23 December 2013 at 23:39

    Gary, your selflessness continues to amaze me. I'll be supporting you from across the pond. Thank you for being the giving, wonderful, amazing person you that you are. My friend.
    Tina @ Life is Good

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  27. Julia Hones24 December 2013 at 00:17

    I love your idea. You really make a difference, Gary.
    Thank you for our friendship.

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  28. Cat and DOG Chat With Caren24 December 2013 at 01:11

    YOU my friend are INCREDIBLE!!!!! May all the love you give to others be given back to you in zillions!

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  29. Unknown24 December 2013 at 04:02

    I don't know anyone more kind-hearted than you. Gary. Penny and your decorations look adorable in the pic! Thanks for sharing with us. Thanks for being a shining example of altruism and benevolence. Thanks for being you.

    Merry Christmas! :-D

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  30. Robin24 December 2013 at 04:17

    The holidays can be an extremely lonely time. It is so thoughtful of you to make yourself available. I adore your generosity of spirit.

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  31. Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe24 December 2013 at 09:18

    Dear Gary,

    I wish you, Tristan, and Penny a peaceful, happy holiday and throughout the new year.

    ReplyDelete
  32. River24 December 2013 at 11:34

    You're doing a wonderful thing Gary, I'm sure many will appreciate it. I like the way you've decorated the edges of your photos, how did you do that?
    Merry Christmas to you and Tristan and Penny too.

    ReplyDelete
  33. bazza24 December 2013 at 12:24

    That's a wonderful thing to do Gary. Enjoy your day; I'll drink a toast to you tomorrow!
    Best regards, Bazza.
    CLICK HERE for Bazza’s Blog ‘To Discover Ice’

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  34. myinnerchick.com24 December 2013 at 16:21

    Love! Love! Love!

    xxx That's all.

    ReplyDelete
  35. fairyhedgehog24 December 2013 at 20:21

    Christmas can be a difficult time for so many people, Gary, and I love it that you're there to help.

    I hope you have a very fulfilling Christmas. *hugs*

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  36. Yolanda Renée24 December 2013 at 23:56

    Bless you Gary for your generous spirit!

    Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas, and peaceful New Year!

    ReplyDelete
  37. FANCY the Red Standard Poodle25 December 2013 at 01:43

    Hi Y'all!

    Have a blessed Christmas.

    Hawk aka BrownDog and his Human

    ReplyDelete
  38. The Words Crafter25 December 2013 at 02:41

    I love how cozy Penny looks :) I remember those lonely Christmases. Holidays can be unintentionally cruel. How wonderful of you to offer your time this way. A beautiful post from a beautiful spirit. May you have a safe and blessed Christmas.

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  39. Denise Covey 25 December 2013 at 06:12

    Have a safe, blessed Christmas Gary. You are a wonderful human being. Thanks for reaching out to others.

    Denise

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  40. Mark Koopmans25 December 2013 at 14:32

    hey brother G,

    You have a heart of gold and you are a priceless person!

    Thanks for all you're doing today -and everyday.

    Merry Christmas to you and yours ...have a Happy New Year... you deserve it :-)

    brother Mark

    ReplyDelete
  41. klahanie25 December 2013 at 15:56

    My wonderful friends. Normally I would do my utmost to reply to each of you. However, on this day when I'm dedicating my time to being of support and positive interaction via emails, I will forward to all of you, my heartfelt gratitude.

    I do my best to focus on others on what can be such a sad time. For those who are spectators as the world around seems to be immersed in joyous family festive times, know that you never need be alone.

    Whatever your beliefs, I wish each and everyone of you a peaceful, hopeful, loving Festive Season.

    In peace and goodwill for a better future for all of us, your friend,

    Gary :)

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  42. John Going Gently26 December 2013 at 00:34

    Happy Christmas Gary...take care

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    Replies
    1. klahanie26 December 2013 at 00:48

      And indeed it was, my friend. Happy Boxing Day to you and your loved ones.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  43. Bish Denham26 December 2013 at 01:34

    What a precious gift you have offered, Gary. Blessings to you, dear human and to Penny.

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    Replies
    1. klahanie27 December 2013 at 19:06

      Hi Bish,

      Thank you very much. A shared gift of hope, of comfort. On behalf of Penny, here's wishing you a lovely rest of the Holiday Season.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  44. Rick Watson26 December 2013 at 02:22

    Merry Christmas. I hope it's been a delightful holiday for you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie27 December 2013 at 19:07

      Hi Rick,

      I hope your Christmas was a peaceful time. I had a very quiet Christmas, alone yet not alone.

      In kindness,

      Gary :)

      Delete
  45. Hilary Melton-Butcher26 December 2013 at 09:04

    Hi Gary - I'd forgotten your Open-help time for others at and over Christmas .. it must make such a difference to many - as you say ... just someone there to talk to, to listen to ... to 'be' with .. and to have some positive thoughts for the next few days.

    We are lucky that we are fed, safe, have a roof over our heads - yet in our world so many need reaching out to .. or opening up their hurt so we can help them through ..

    Wonderful thoughtful work you do during this very difficult time for many .. I hope you had some time together as a family and were able to enjoy your chimes, your Christmas lights and celebratory time ... with thoughts and thanks for your generous gift to others .. Hilary

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    Replies
    1. klahanie28 December 2013 at 01:28

      Hi Hilary,

      No worries, dear friend. And I know a number of you were involved in Mark's Fifty States of Pray. That was a powerful achievement and I was glad to be in the background showing support to that. While I did my own unique dedication.

      We are lucky, for sure. So many are hurting, so many just need to understand that we can be there for them.

      The day was a lonely day. Yet beyond the loneliness, I sensed the spirit of the community beyond my screen. All here for each other. That is powerful and I'm deeply grateful.

      Bless you, Hilary and I hope you had a peaceful Christmas.

      Gary

      Delete
  46. Gossip_Grl26 December 2013 at 12:14

    Beautiful pictures and a lovely sentiment for the Holidays. Stopping by to Wish You, Penny and Tristan a Merry Christmas.

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    Replies
    1. klahanie28 December 2013 at 01:17

      Hi Gossip_Grl,

      I appreciate you kind comment. Thank you, dear friend. Hope you and your loved ones had a most joyous Christmas.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  47. Chancelet26 December 2013 at 16:56

    How wonderfully beautiful! You know, I'm sure, that this is for the 50 States of Prayer! even though you don't do blog hops. I'm wishing you and yours a wonderfully peaceful, blessed and joyful new year Gary! Writer’s Mark

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    Replies
    1. klahanie27 December 2013 at 19:04

      Hi Nancy,

      That is most kind of you. This was my own way of reaching out. I did the same thing last year. I'm glad that so many of you were involved in Mark's blog hop. I always do my best rather discreetly in the background :)

      A peaceful, hopeful New Year to you and your loved ones, dear Nancy.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  48. Lisa26 December 2013 at 19:04

    Merry Everything to you and yours Gary. What a lovely and thoughtful post. There you go again, thinking of others... my son is also named Tristan! It's a great name. Big warm hugs to you and hope the "cyber" hugs help keep you toasty...

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    Replies
    1. klahanie28 December 2013 at 01:15

      Hi Lisa,

      And a merry everything to you and your loved ones, Lisa. Thank you for your warm words. I recall that your son's name is also Tristan. A fine name, indeed. Such toasty cyber hugs, dear friend.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  49. Lisa26 December 2013 at 19:05

    And Penny too! Didn't want to forget her!!!

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    Replies
    1. klahanie28 December 2013 at 01:16

      Oops and on behalf of Penny, Lisa, she sends you pawsitive thoughts :)

      Penny's alleged human,

      Gary :)

      Delete
  50. Unknown26 December 2013 at 20:52

    Now that the holidays are over, I hope you had a really happy holiday.

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    Replies
    1. klahanie28 December 2013 at 01:06

      Hi Lady Lilith,

      Tis such a fine name thy have. I hope you also have a really happy holiday, my friend.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  51. Misha Gerrick27 December 2013 at 17:56

    I hope you had a blessed Christmas time, and that 2014 will be an amazing year for you in all the best ways. :-)

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    Replies
    1. klahanie28 December 2013 at 01:05

      Hi Misha,

      It was profoundly blessed, my dear friend. I hope you had a peaceful Christmas and that 2014 may you continue on with your writing endeavours. Oh, and Happy Birthday!

      Gary :)

      Delete
  52. DMS27 December 2013 at 18:04

    You are fantastic! What a wonderful thing you did this year and last year by making yourself available to people on one of the toughest days of the year for so many out there. I hope you had a nice holiday and that 2014 will be a wonderful one for you.

    I also find hope in the chimes blowing in the wind!
    ~Jess

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    Replies
    1. klahanie27 December 2013 at 19:24

      Hi Jess,

      You are most kind. Thank you. I dedicate Christmas Day to those who might be struggling on what can be the loneliest, saddest times of the year. I sent out my positive, compassionate thoughts. My holiday has been very quiet and reflective. All very good. Hope you and your loved ones are having a peaceful time. 2014, a year of hope for us all.

      The symphony for our souls. Heard within the music of the wind chimes.

      Gary :)

      Delete

I do try to comment back to each commenter individually. However, I might have to shorten my replies or give a group thank you. That way, I can spend more time commenting on your blogs. Thank you and peace, my friend.