We’ve come to the end of another year. It’s been a turbulent year in our country and
all over the world. Due to the internet,
we see too much and are manipulated constantly. I would like to suggest that for a little
while we turn all of that off or at least turn it down. I try to stay sane and focused by concentrating
on all of the good that surrounds us on this little island.
I like the stories of the runaway dogs that are
often tracked by people all over the Island via Facebook or other local social
media groups until the pup is reunited with his family. Or the story of a lady
I spoke to recently who lost her purse.
It was full of cash for holiday shopping and all of her credit
cards. It was found and when she got it
back everything was there.
I love the story of the little boy who told me he
had settled for a smaller Christmas tree this year so that he could donate the
difference a larger tree would cost to help the homeless. He has good parents teaching him compassion and
charity.
I hear so many stories from you. I hear of accidents on slick roadways and the
neighbors and professionals who save the day, and sometimes a life. I see the
folks stopping to help a motorist in distress or give a friend a ride
home. I read the notes online that ask
for, and receive, money or assistance for those suffering illness or injury.
But best of all is walking around town and seeing
people talking, hugging, laughing and sharing.
There may be other places like this somewhere but I don’t know of
them. This community is open to folks of
all ethnic background, color, religion, sexual orientation and political
opinion. I’d say that’s rare. It’s worth defending forever.
This is a place where it’s safe to grow old. We have our problems, of course. Sadly, some bad things happen. But kindness and generosity overflow here
and I’m grateful. Happy New Year!