CNN iReport

While we are engrossed in our holiday preparations, we may not realize that during this time of year many families have little cause for celebration.

While we are sitting down to a table filled with food and surrounded by the smiling faces of our friends and family, many others' tables are bare.

While our children tear through wrapping paper and delight in their new toys, many children only face another day of poverty and hunger.

While we snuggle close to our loved ones in a warm home, the homes of many are cold and dark.

While we give thanks for the sacrifices made by the men and women of our armed forces, many veterans remain homeless and in dire circumstances physically, emotionally, and financially.

We recently celebrated Veterans' Day, which asks us to recall and honor those who put their lives in danger or lost their lives in the act of serving this country; who helped to secure and protect our most basic values; who fought and are fighting every day to ensure that those of us here at home can continue our pursuit of happiness unhindered by fear. Our service men and women have sacrificed precious time with their loved ones during the holidays for general peace of mind and well-being. They understand that burdens, which would be overwhelming to just a few, become much lighter when borne by many.

As we head into the busiest season of the year, I ask that we all find a moment to reflect on our lives, count our blessings and remember that there are many who suffer under greater burdens than we do. They are people, not politicians, not corporations, but human beings just like you and me who need urgent help.

This year, donate the money you saved by reusing last year's decorations. Clean out your closet to make room for your new clothes and give the old ones to a shelter or mission. If you get a free turkey by saving supermarket points, give it to a food bank and buy your own. Volunteer at a hospital, nursing home, or veteran's center.

If you can't give money, give time. If you can't give time, give hope. If we each do a little, we can take big steps toward lightening the load for those who carry it alone.