12/25/10

Bon Jovi: Through it all, Christmas still manages to shine brightly

DECEMBER 25, 2010

It may seem we live in coarsening times where scandal and salaciousness are the only things that draw people's attention.

How then is the good will felt by all on Christmas Day explained?

Today is the one day of the year where faith in the innate goodness of man seems to be renewed and invigorated. It's renewed during the giving of presents on Christmas morning. It's renewed by the breaking of bread Christmas afternoon. It's renewed by the tender wishing of Merry Christmas, or Happy Holidays, of strangers to strangers.

It's renewed by events like the Christmas lunch being offered by Temple Emanu-El, a Reform Jewish synagogue, in Edison today.

"The Temple Emanu-El decided to do something to help the community, and since we know our Christian friends are busy with their own families on Christmas Day, it would be a nice idea to provide a Christmas Day dinner (in the afternoon) for those who would not otherwise have a place to go," said Dara Winston, office manager at the temple.

Christmas is the day Christians observe the birth of Jesus Christ. But perhaps even more than that, it is a day of goodwill in which everyone can partake. A HIT for Christmas Day, and the Christmas spirit.

HIT: Mr. Bon Jovi goes to Washington

The notion of Sayreville native Jon Bon Jovi as a steadfast humanitarian is quite a contrast from his '80s image as a teased-hair carefree rocker. But he has received that stamp of approval from none other than President Obama, who has named Bon Jovi to the newly established White House Council for Community Solutions. The council will advise Obama on the best ways to mobilize citizens, nonprofits, businesses and government to work more effectively together to solve specific community needs, according to the White House.

In choosing Bon Jovi for the panel, the White House cited the work of Jon Bon Jovi's Soul Foundation. "The Soul Foundation launches programs and partnerships with the intent to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness in the United States," said the White House. Like we said, Bon Jovi's come a long way. And we applaud. Using his celebrity to bring awareness to the plight of others is a noble thing.

HIT: Full moon disappearing

Those who braved the icy early morning temperatures on Tuesday were treated to a spectacular sight — a total eclipse of the moon. For 72 minutes, the moon appeared like a dusty light-red marble, ready to be plucked from the sky. It was wondrous — and very rare, too, because this eclipse happened on the winter solstice. The last time that occurred was Dec. 21, 1638. The next time? Dec. 21, 2094. So we'll just have to settle for this appy with this particular bit of majesty.

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