Santa Run offers two-way benefits
Never mind the winter holidays that have become consumption overload. Ignore the impatient exchanges toward service industry workers. You are better than that.
Find time for goodness and have fun, too. How both?
It's not difficult. I am talking about the Arlington Heights Rotary Club Santa Run. All religions get a big smile as you watch all of the Santas in the pool of red suits. You can walk, run or push strollers as you meander through the streets.
When you participate with your loved ones, this becomes a shared moment that has nothing to do with material things or devices that limits verbal conversation.
This event may become a tradition that is looked forward to yearly. You will definitely meet other participants along the way to share smiles and laughter, which only warms your soul.
It's all about coming together when we all seem divided.
Even though you may not be able to participate in the run, come anyway. Bring your family to enjoy the spectacle of a herd of Santas at the starting point. As they set off at different paces, you can almost imagine that there must be a gang of Grinches chasing them. Afterward you can dine at any of our fine restaurants for brunch or lunch.
More importantly, you have helped the Arlington Heights Rotary Club succeed in their largest fundraiser. All of the money goes toward worthwhile causes that support people in need locally and abroad. They are and have been involved in eradicating polio worldwide. (They will have an amazing polio exhibit.)
It's up to you. It's always been up to you. Sign up, you won't be sorry.
I hope to see you on Saturday, Dec. 2. Until then, Happy Winter Solstice from my family to yours.
Helen Gong Weiner
Arlington Heights