In Times of Need

Things happen! That is not consoling in the aftermath of either natural disaster or personal tragedy where there is loss of property and/or life. First Responders are to be commended for their applying skills of training, physical abilities, and mental alertness, oftentimes placing their own safety at risk. Events could include hurricanes in the Gulf Coast region, tornadoes in the heartland, wildfires in the western states, or flooding situations. Actions are sometimes heroic and deserving of honor and recognition.

There are personal instances, too, of private individuals who demonstrate acts of compassion, care, and concern for others. The “others” could be a neighbor or a total stranger. The Samaritan act could be that of preparing a meal, providing for basic necessities, or consoling with understanding and sincere empathy. In that moment of time, the injured party may need an ear to listen or a shoulder to cry on or a silent comfort of one’s embrace. These providers do not get their names in the local newspaper or their faces on the evening telecasts. Rather, my opinion is that these providers simply want to feel that they are “doing the right thing” for their fellow mankind in need.

I feel confident that readers will know someone who has been a “Personal Responder”; or, perhaps they themselves have had opportunities of charitable acts. My mother was one of those benevolent individuals, consistent and dependable. She would certainly not have wanted publicity for “simply being there” in someone’s hour of need. In memoriam, I now give her recognition for “services rendered”.