Good People Everywhere

Today, in neighbourhoods all over the world, millions and millions of people are doing very good things. 

So begins a book that I was fortunate enough to discover over the summer, as I was preparing to teach Kindergarten. The message is both timely and timeless. With a voice that seems to channel the wisdom of Mister Rogers, author Lynea Gillen reassures us that all sorts of people are doing good things, wonderful things, in fact. I couldn't think of a more important message to offer children as they set about their journey into the wider world.

My grandmother's house was built by good people. In order to help her get on her own two feet, her Auntie Franka bought her the property on Chicken Point. Now, with a housekeeping job at the Hosptial, Imba was able to contribute some money toward the cost of the materials needed to build the house. When I asked my grandma "Who built the house?" her reply was, "everybody." Everyone helped. She remembers so many neighbours offering their time and materials, and specifically mentioned Ed Ortlieb and Bill McLean Senior. Most of the work was completed on the weekends, as the men would have been working throughout the week. I am trying to wrap my head around what it must have felt like to receive such a gift. The photo above is the house, shortly after it was built. Isn't it a beautiful thought to know she is still sleeping under that same roof tonight.

There were other good people in the world today. Many friends are now following this blog and have sent words of encouragement. My daily challenge indicated that it was Garbage Day. I had to find a bag tag or find a solution. With only $17.28 remaining, I didn't really want to buy a bag tag. I decided to throw it in the bin at work. I confessed this to the Principal, and she understood. That was good.

At 6:30 I walked to our School Council Meeting. We started the meeting with a prayer for those in need of food, clothing, shelter and education. The prayer was intentionally chosen because of its relevance to the Week of Action Against Poverty. As the meeting progressed, the topic turned to outreach. Along with the incredible things they do to support the school, the Council is committed to making a difference in our local community. You can imagine my excitement when they decided that the proceeds of the 50/50 draw from the Ice Fishing Derby they are holding this weekend will be directed to meal programs in Kenora. In addition, they expressed their willingness to volunteer at one of the programs. At the end of the meeting, I was offered a ride home by one of the parents. It was 8:00 and I was tired. Despite the fact that I had packed a flashlight in my pocket, I didn't really want to walk home. It was kind of her to offer a ride.

Although I might not know who, or where. . . I know that tonight there are local people delivering hot meals, caring for children who are not their own, visiting people who are sick or lonely, or helping someone find a warm place to stay. I am more aware of the importance of this work and the impact it has on our community. I am grateful.

Here is a link to a reading of the book, Good People Everywhere

Tonight, in neighbourhoods all around Kenora, hundreds and hundreds of people are doing very good things.