Radio personalities, speaking for myself at least, have a tendency to sometimes feel disconnected to the outside world.
We sit in a bubble. We talk to a screen and push buttons.
Talk show hosts, disc jockeys, producers, engineers are essentially speaking to a world that more often than not, doesn't speak back.
It's taken me a great many years to come to terms with that bit of silence, especially when compared with the overwhelming moments when we find out our work does have some meaning, some larger purpose and provides some hope for others.
This weekend, as we celebrate Thanksgiving with our families, friends, loved ones and colleagues, I will definitely take time to be grateful for the amazing work that our local branch of the Salvation Army has done to feed thousands of people this holiday season.
Last week, my coworkers and I shared another remarkable day accepting donations from listeners for the Salvation Army's annual Thanksgiving Day dinner, as well for their annual holiday gift drives.
Between the efforts of our five radio stations, we raised more than $10,000 in food and cash.
The day was cold, but the stories we shared with individuals filled us with warmth.
The task was large, as it always and unfortunately is, but the outpouring of support showed us all we could still climb that hill.
It was a humbling and touching moment for all of us involved.
Even a curmudgeonly old sort like myself.
The holidays aren't always merry, bright, happy or warm for all of us.
Some of us aren't quite so privileged.
For a moment though, the Salvation Army gets to do their part to bring some cheer to those who need it the most.
And we, as a small part of that, get a reminder that the work we do brings with it a sense of connection, a responsibility to do better and to be better for one and all.
I am thankful to an amazing cast and crew who bring some sense and balance to you over the airwaves on a daily basis.
Adam Savage, Mark Lillie, Kevin O'Neill, DeeAnn Durbin, Jenny Lee Ryan, Jeff Ahrens and an array of others, both here and across the country, who entertain you, distract you, fill your heart and lift your spirits.
And of course, our illustrious leader and the captain of the ship Dave Schaefer, who as he reads this, is most certainly shaking his head at getting too much attention.
Trust me, he's earned it.
All of it.
But knowing that he's earned it, this will allow Dave to turn that attention back to where it belongs. To those who need it most. He teaches us that on a regular basis, and for that, we are all grateful.
Thank you -- everyone -- for those reminders.
Happy Thanksgiving.