As we get closer and closer to Election Day, it seems to get harder and harder for people to be kind to one another. From the major party candidates themselves all the way down to our neighbors who are stealing campaign signs, it seems that trading insults and attempting to force our own preferences on others is the order of the day.

That is not the case in Shadyside, though, as a tradition of caring for others is returning to the forefront there. Melanie Haswell, a village council member and longtime educator, is keeping her parents’ legacy of kindness alive by organizing the 33rd installment of the community’s Sharing Tree.

Ray and Bette Ponzo started the effort, placing a tree covered in stars for people to take at the municipal building. The stars list details about less fortunate children in the Shadyside Local School District and their Christmas wishes. Today, the physical tree is no longer involved, because the program outgrew the space — a great problem to have.

Although the Ponzos have passed away, Haswell and her children and grandchildren continue to gather information about children in need and — with the help of generous donors — do their best to ensure those kids have a merry Christmas.

So, instead of fixating on the nastiness of politics, let’s focus on making the holidays brighter for all. Call Haswell at 740-391-5015 to lend a hand.