This week, I had my regular massage "tune-up" at the clinic in my neighbourhood. Having been their regular patron for many years, it now seems like a friendly visit to my neighbours.
As I consider the many folk throughout my community that are part of my day-to-day world, I feel my response should be one of gratefulness. My life would be lacking without many of them. One of my assignments in college — while preparing for my teaching career — was to create a lesson plan for a primary class that would help them become aware of the people that served in their community.
In later years, while teaching kindergarten and pre-school classes, the community helpers theme was an important part of the curriculum, with first-hand experiences: visits to the bakery, fire hall, library, music school and classroom visits from our local RCMP.
It helped the children develop an awareness and appreciation for the different people that contributed to their lives on a daily basis.
Now, as I go about my weekly errands, I often think of the many people that regularly touch my life — those who assist me in so many ways.
They are my "community helpers." Only a few of them do I know by first name basis but, I can't help but think of them as friends.
And, of course, my church leaders, who help me celebrate community each week, assisting me in better understanding and celebrating life.
When our local The Bay store decided to close its coffee shop (much to me and my buddies' dismay), a hand-written note and a "sweet" gift from Purdy's Chocolates to those who had graciously served me many times, helped to express my "thanks."
My Surprise Puff muffins became an instant hit when I shared them with the staff at my hair salon. I find opportunities abound if I just look for them — ways to make someone else's day a little brighter.
A wise quote from Mr. Rogers...
They are my "community helpers." Only a few of them do I know by first name basis but, I can't help but think of them as friends.
Whether it's Dorothy at The Bay, who helps me find just the right item; my favourite bank teller who always remembers "my" name; the friendly staff at Save-On Foods; the gal who wears the colourful clothes and graciously assists me at Sears; or, the different operators, like Christine, who I've got to know during those weekly visits to my hair salon.
Sometimes, as a way of showing my appreciation, I practice a RAK (random act of kindness).
When our local The Bay store decided to close its coffee shop (much to me and my buddies' dismay), a hand-written note and a "sweet" gift from Purdy's Chocolates to those who had graciously served me many times, helped to express my "thanks."
My Surprise Puff muffins became an instant hit when I shared them with the staff at my hair salon. I find opportunities abound if I just look for them — ways to make someone else's day a little brighter.
Meanwhile, it's helping me practice having a grateful heart.
"I believe that appreciation is a holy thing, that when we look for what's best in the person we happen to be with at the moment, we're doing what God does; so in appreciating our neighbour, we're participating in something truly sacred."
"Love me for who I am, not for who you want me to be."
— beulah
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