The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.
-- Samuel Johnson


Christmas is fast approaching and close behind is another new year. This is a time for being with family and friends, reflecting on things past, and preparing for things to come.

For many this holiday season will not be a joyous one. Homes are being foreclosed on in record numbers, jobs are being lost, savings are being eroded, and the future looks very grim indeed.

Those of us who work for the State often tend to by myopic in our outlook, especially now when the State's budget crisis is worse than ever. I am no different, worrying about how I will pay my bills with inflation reducing my buying power weekly.

A week or so ago, as I was limping from my car to house, cursing the foot that surgery was supposed to cure, an older man walked by, his left foot curved inward and left knee unbending. Here was someone in worse shape than I, out for a walk, who smiled at me and said, "good evening." My pain quickly eased.

The pain we feel is minor compared to what others are going through. I know it sounds trite, but we are lucky to have a job that pays relatively well and has such great benefits. For once in my life, I feel blessed that I am able to pay my mortgage every month.

Don't get me wrong; like you, I want what I have protected and I want to build on it. It is just that especially at this time of year, I am aware of so many who have so much less.

On the news I hear that half a million jobs "vanished in a flash" nationally. If Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors file bankruptcy and reorganize, it will leave many more out of work and hundreds of thousands with reduced paychecks, health care and pensions.

My wishes for all of you are that you are safe and close to those that matter to you.
In all my years as your President I have never urged you to donate to any charity. This year I feel we all need to do what we can. If any of you can, reach out in whatever way you wish to someone less fortunate.

God bless your families and all of you. I wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New-year. May your friends, families, and you be safe and secure.