Let’s build bridges, not walls. – MLK, Jr.

Neighbors are trying to finish their back patio. Our son offered to help move dirt…for free. It didn’t hurt that they had rented a machine that lights up a 20-year-old’s enthusiasm, but still.

Same neighbor needed help with his lawnmower. Sam did not hesitate.

Dad’s neighbor needed help cleaning and sorting in her apartment, an opportunity for my sister and I to do something nice, just because.

We needed help pulling off a wedding shower this summer, and I needed help knowing what to wear to the wedding. Karen gave me time off from work, took a day off and helped me shop and prepare for the shower, and then she let me borrow shoes and a beautiful outfit for the big day, because that is who she is.

Michelle cleared her weekend calendar, drove 3 1/2 hours, just to hold my hand the weekend of the wedding. She wasn’t invited to the big event. She just came to help us feel loved and less stressed, because that is who she is.

My sister lives here, but here is relative. It is a good 30 minute drive from her home to ours. And still. When we are out of town for more than two days, she drives the drive to check on Banana and Split, because that is who she is.

Thursdays are piano therapy day for me. After work, I drive over to Dad’s to play my piano for awhile. I am usually greeted by a handful of residents who graciously sit and listen to my hymns and random musical therapy. Now, I have added in an hour of Bingo calling, because it has been missed – by me, and by the residents who need something different to do in the evenings. It makes for a long day, but it also makes for a full heart day, too.

Great acts of love are done by those who are habitually performing small acts of kindness.

I am grateful for opportunities to extend a hand and cross a bridge. It is nice to extend & receive, to cross & be on the other side, welcoming.

I am also grateful for a deer this morning that wasn’t too scared to let us get a little closer as we walked.

And of course, I am grateful for tonight when Cindy and Keith are on our couch and we are all watching the CHIEFS.

For the mountains may depart and the hills disappear, but My kindness shall not leave you.
My promise of peace for you will never be broken,” says the Lord who has mercy upon you. – Isaiah 54:10