The Basket Lady

by Mitzi Sequoia

I, for one, would like to say “thank you” to the men and women who have served valiantly on foreign lands away from loved ones without wavering in their resolve.

Memorial Day is a time of personal reflection for many of us in a variety of ways; maybe the death of a spouse, grandparent, or a child.

Maybe the loss of a job, a beloved pet or a dear friend. In any case, the memories of those who have gone on before us, still linger in our hearts.

This Memorial Day, I’m certain that I won’t be the only person reminiscing about Naomi Farrar; sweet Earth angel.

Approximately, 10 years ago, I met Naomi through one of her “Sheltering Wing” brochures posted on the bulletin board at Hannaford’s.

She was the founder of the Sheltering Wing, housed in the basement of the Peru Baptist Church, and there was no doubt that she had found her calling-a mission of unconditional giving that brought great joy to those who came in contact with her.

Naomi didn’t apologize for, nor defend her belief that if a new mom or family contacted the Sheltering Wing in immediate need of baby clothes, diapers or a crib, regardless of income or circumstance, she would help them.

During that time, I was employed as a family educator and home visitor in the Healthy Beginnings Program at Community Concepts.

After reading the brochure, I called and introduced myself and asked if we could have a meeting to talk about how we could work together to serve the River Valley families and make referrals to one another.

At our very first meeting, Naomi brought along her three children and told me that she was pregnant with her fourth child.

Naomi spoke kindly to the children when she asked them to sit at the table to read a book or to color while we conversed.

I was struck by how well-mannered they were, (especially when I started talking, over an hour).

Until Naomi’s mother, Brenda Swan, took over the Sheltering Wing a few years ago, Naomi and I talked on the telephone several times a week for five years, collaborating on how we were going to help a family or young mom in need.

Friends, please contact the Peru Baptist Church and donate a basket filled with baby clothes, formula, and/or diapers to the Sheltering Wing in honor of Naomi Farrar. I know for sure that I will.

In memory of Naomi, I chose the following poem.

Do the right thing;

Do it today;

Do it with no hope of return or promise of reward;

Do it with a smile and a cheerful attitude;

Do it day after day after day.

Do it, and someday,

There will come a day

That will be a payday

For all the yesterdays

You spent focused on the current day-

That will not only give value to today,

But will make each future day

Outshine each yesterday.

And what more could you ask of a day?

-- (John Maxwell)

Kindness does count, friends. We miss you every day, Dot Sanchas!

Until then, smile and live in the present.