Christmas is a time to be mindful of and to share the many blessings we enjoy.

After receiving word of his death this week, some local residents recalled how Ed Dutton viewed his work with the Lawrence Interdenominational Nutrition Kitchen, which he helped found. Dutton, they said, believed there was a narrow table between himself and the hungry and homeless people he helped feed at LINK.

The narrow table was his metaphor for the thin line that separates people who are poor from those who have plenty. It’s a line that any number of unfortunate circumstances can push just about any of us across.

It’s a humbling thought for a Christmas Day.

As we gather with our families to enjoy a bounty of gifts and an overabundance of holiday food, we all should take a few minutes to recognize just how fortunate we are.

Difficult economic times have taken their toll. Recent news stories have put a very human face on the cutbacks in government services to our most vulnerable citizens. Those of us who are healthy and able to care for ourselves and our loved ones should recognize what a blessing that is.

Although there is poverty in America, it pales by comparison with the living conditions in many nations around the world. The spread of AIDS is taking a horrible toll in Africa, and people in many parts of the globe can only dream of the lifestyle that most Americans enjoy. Even in developed countries, uncertain economic conditions are causing concern and hardship.

Political situations also weigh heavily on the globe this Christmas. Oppressive regimes in the Middle East and elsewhere have made fear a part of daily living for many people. We in the United States have so much personal freedom, but the unsettled world situation has left us feeling less secure. What role should America play in the world? What is our responsibility? How should we use our power to make the world a better place? These are complex questions for which the United States still is seeking the best answers.

World unrest and the tight economy are putting many pressures on the state and nation. To be sure, many people are experiencing a holiday that is less bountiful than in years past. And yet, most of us still enjoy such simple comforts as good health, food on the table and a warm place to sleep.

It’s good to remember, as Ed Dutton did, that it’s a narrow table that separates the world’s haves from the have-nots. Those of use who are able should reach out to those less fortunate and share some of the blessings we often take for granted.

May this holiday find you and your loved ones happy, safe and warm. Merry Christmas!