The Basket Lady
Dec 30, 2010 12:00 am
by Mitzi Sequoia
A new year will arrive within the next ten days, filled with the hopes, dreams and anticipation of things to come.
As I reflect upon 2010, the folks in the River Valley have demonstrated once again, how generous and kind they are to fellow citizens in need.
We haven’t had a secret Santa Claus passing out $100 bills in our town.
However, we have had more than 100 people from our community who have faithfully donated their time, dollars and kindness so that others may receive a helping hand.
Folks giving to others without attached conditions- priceless. A thriving community benefits everyone when its members feel good about where and how they live.
There’s a ton of stories out there in the River Valley of individuals and groups who “do” kind things on behalf of others everyday, not just during the holidays.
A dear lady went to the Jane Holt deFrees Benefit and bought the winning ticket for a Christmas basket but then she thought about another family member who could use some cheering up, so she gave the basket to him.
Barbara Morse bakes her fruit breads all night long, packages them as fresh as can be, hops into her car and delivers them to local churches, youth groups and to the basket lady.
She’s given away hundreds of her homemade breads-the stuff of life, bread that feeds the soul.
Three sisters, June Weeks, Barbara Smith and Virginia Stickney, for many years, have given away crocheted hats, mittens and scarves for children and adults who needed warmth during winter.
Lane McDonald and her mother, Christine Ladd, have sewn and crocheted mittens, dish cloths, towels and caps for a lifetime of giving to others in need.
A single act of a kindness shown can literally change a heart and life.
What greater gift can we give and get as another year approaches filled with hopes, dreams and anticipation of things to come, then the gift of kindness?
Dot Sanchas, a friend and mentor, showed a kindness everyday of her life to a friend or a foe. Be kind to others in word and deed.
We miss you everyday, Dot Sanchas! Until then, smile and live in the present.