Editorial: Spare a moment to help others

ONE of the purposes of the media is to find words, music and voice -- figuratively -- to rectify the condition of that ubiquitous creature, the unsung hero.

That's why there are often good news stories about people doing good things for their fellow human beings, and that can happen at any time of year.

But there seems to be something about Christmas that brings out the best in people, and creates even more stories of good deeds and thoughtful consideration.

That's when there is a universal realisation that some people are worse off and will not enjoy the Christmas to which we all aspire.

That's when poor people stop being a nuisance to the collective conscience, and the better off actually notice they are there and might actually need help.

But why at Christmas? Because that's the time the world is at its most commercial and, conversely, at its most sentimental.

Inundated with soppy films and simpering internet stories, emotional Christmas cards and cutesy emojis, we like to think we stop to spare a thought for our fellow human beings, in whatever straits they find themselves.

It's that moment of thought that lets us believe we are basically good people ... and then we move on and finish the Christmas shopping.

But others do more than that; they act.

They volunteer, they give, they help, they take matters personally and do good things for others.

We notice it more at Christmas but these people probably do it all year round, because that's the kind of people they are.

So when we spare that fleeting thought, also spare it for those who spend their Christmas making sure others get some enjoyment out of theirs. And, if we can, help.

It might be just by buying a raffle ticket or donating to a cause, but it all adds up to a Merry Christmas for as many people as possible.

We can't all be heroes.