When Staying Warm is a Priority

Another of those cold winter days South Dakotans are familiar with is a time when staying warm is a priority.

A forecast that calls for falling temperatures and dangerous wind chills makes me think of those who can't find a warm place for shelter.

People, of course, but also animals.

I grew up on a farm, and I saw how cattle did their best to keep warm. They would stay close together and go with the wind until they reached the fence, either in the pasture or the cattle yard. It was the opposite of what they did on hot days, walking into the wind as far as they could.

We had a dog house, and our succession of dogs would, at least, stay out of the wind if they could, although wooden walls likely didn't keep them very warm.

But what of the people who have no permanent home, or who rely on shelters for housing? It can't be easy.

So if you've been thinking about making a donation to the Union Gospel Mission, the Salvation Army or some other relief agency, this would be a very good timie to do so.