We know the season in our bones. In the days after Thanksgiving the wind and rain stripped down those few leaves that were left, and our winter coats are coming out. Beaches are lonely and wind-pierced places. But no sooner was that pumpkin pie digested than lights began to appear on the streets of the village centers down-Island.

As Islanders now check off their list of gifts, they also are making sure that they are helping assure that no one goes without a holiday meal, and that no children lack a present. There’s no true participation in the holidays without helping ease the burdens of others. Soon enough, the upcoming holidays will be receding into the past, and a long parade of gray and often dreary days will stretch ahead through winter. Have something warm to remember.