By Pauline Tom.
Have you tried or experienced “Pay It Forward” at Starbuck’s or another drive through? In some instances across the country, a chain of hundreds takes place when one person pays for the next person in line. This is a simple act of love that works any week of the year. We can’t do it in Mountain City. But, now that we’re not very far out in the country, we can practice it close by.
We just recently celebrated “Random Acts of Kindness Week”. The website encourages folks to “Step out of your normal routine or comfort zone and attempt a new random act of kindness each day.” That’s something we can do any day of the year to make our world a better place and put brightness into our lives.
I didn’t have to go far on their list of 350 Acts of Kindness to find “Bring in Your Neighbor’s Trash Can.” I’ve seen Ron do this, many a time. Count me as one who has driven around a trash can in the street.
“Pick up trash.” Mountain City’s streets would be quite the mess if not for neighbors who pick up trash as they walk. A big shout out to all who lend a helping hand.
Visit someone who is lonely.
Praise a parent for their child.
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Did you miss the Mountain City collection of donations for Hays County PAWS, to the love with our four-legged friends? Donations can be dropped off at PAWS throughout the year. The nonprofit prefers dog food with meat as the first ingredient. Purina One or Pro A Plan are great and inexpensive. Blankets, toys, and pillows are also needed.
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If you’ve followed this column for very many years, you know I received a ragged and worn Valentine on Friday in an old scotch-taped kraft envelope with many a faded year printed and crossed out. Ron started giving the valentine to me in the 70s. I would put it in the trash can after a few days. It would reappear each year.
It says, “Honey, How Lucky Can You Get? You’ve got me!” Yes, indeed, the Valentine shines focus on the giver rather than the receiver. But, the loyalty and deep abiding love conveyed through the years say love more than words could ever say.
Yes, indeed, I am blessed.
Romans 5:8 (ESV) but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Love to you, Pauline
P.S. I love to get tidbits for Montage. Email [email protected] or call (512)268-5678.
