“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘ Come back later, I’ll give it tomorrow’ – when you now have it with you.” Proverbs 3: 27-28
Giving of yourself in the day to day life can bring such wonderful rewards. I have been reflecting on the many acts of kindness that I have witnessed in our local area in the past weeks. People giving of their time and talents to make someone else’s life better. Sometimes I have heard compliments given that just brightened someone’s day. Those are words, that if not just held in our heads or hearts can really lift another’s spirit. We need to say them out loud in order for them to have benefit.
Other times I have had the privilege to be witness to those who put themselves in the spotlight to entertain us for a great cause, or simply to bring laughter which is such a healing and welcome gift.
There are also many others who behind the scenes make our small town, Midwestern life richer and fuller. There is no age limit for those who wish to share themselves to bring happiness for a better day. I have seen little people bring such joy and smiles as they do something helpful or innocent. It just lightens your heart.
Relay for Life events to help support the fight against cancer are showing up in our communities. My husband and I really enjoyed the Coaches VS Cancer game in Slayton a little over a week ago. Laughter was abundant throughout the evening, the gym was packed with delighted onlookers, and over eight thousand dollars was raised. When I spoke with a friend just a couple days later, she said the amount was already over ten thousand that had been raised. Several Fulda women are busy planning an event for April 14th that will be held in our local community center to further this same purpose. Check with Kim Kremer if you are interested in being a part of that or attending.
I witnessed care and encouraging at our Water Lily group in the past weeks for those who are dealing with loved ones with cancer, and others who are there after surgeries and illness. When we have a sense of “belonging” in any group, it is great to be supported and lifted up when things are not going as well as we would like in our personal lives.
I found myself subbing at the Fulda schools this past week. I hadn’t been there for a little while because when I retired I asked them to put me on the “desperate” list. Not because I don’t enjoy coming back, but my days are sometimes filled with other obligations and enjoyment, including family and traveling. However, I really enjoyed seeing the kids again! It was a joy to see the changes in the building, and positive things that are happening. The band and choir concerts, ballgames, and other events that the schools in Murray County prepare for our entertainment are a joy to be a part of.
The community play, The Odd Couple, was another event that found me laughing and relaxing for a great evening. All of the cast did a great job, but I especially enjoyed watching Dale Sandberg in his role. All of the years that I taught with Dale, I did not dream that he had acting talents just waiting to be released. The lines of the play were genuinely funny, but Dale really made his character come alive. Thanks to all who worked so hard to put on this production. Also thank you to Dwayna for spearheading the production. As one of my many former students from Fulda Elementary, it is fun to see her back in our little town, sharing her talents with all of us.
This week I had some phone calls and personal conversations dealing with my questions about Holly, our dog, from last week. Friends and acquaintances who reached out to me with some possible answers or solutions. Could it be her teeth? Yes, maybe she does need more fiber in her diet! And one friend highly suggested that she may have some separation issues since we were gone from the farm for over a month. Yes, maybe she missed us. It wasn’t that she didn’t see people or wasn’t taken care of, but it just wasn’t her regular schedule. Is she acting out now just to have us notice? I pondered the advice as I took a morning walk with Holly. She has always been a walking partner whenever I start down the gravel road. Or with my mom when she used to walk a couple miles a day during the spring and summers. Even animals can give of themselves, can’t they?
Have a great week ahead, and whenever you have the chance to give from the goodness of your heart, don’t wait. It may pass you by, and you may not have that opportunity again.
lbeerman68@gmail.com
