As an individual passes from one station in life to the next, a need for ''giving back" to oneself and society becomes more compelling. I suggest this becomes most attractive in the autumn of one's life. This might be because people have more time for reflection. Then again, it may be because of the fight and victory of some life-altering disease such as cancer. So, gratitude factors into this experience.

This is one such story. A New Year's Eve dinner celebration enjoyed by friends and colleagues becomes like no other.