An Unexpected kindness....

 

Those of you who are local are most likely aware of the gentleman who often sits in his wheel chair next to the road in front of the Corry Manor on Worth Street. He smiles and waves to passers by.  There was an article about him in the local newspaper a bit ago. The Journal article, by Chloe Forbes, is entitled "Manor resident uplifts community with a simple smile".  It is a warm and positive human interest piece -- nice in these nutty and often dark times.  The gentleman, Doug Austin, thinks of what he does as a "smile and wave ministry".  I think that is most apt.  It does my heart good to see his smile and to smile and wave back to him -- a total stranger.  It is the bond of a kindness that ends up moving both ways -- good for both sides of the exchange. Double kindness.  A smile and a wave -- simple, but powerful kindness. The whole "thing" makes me think....

Of all the words written about kindness, these are my favorite.

                An unexpected kindness is the greatest gift.  

An unanticipated smile, a nod of approval or understanding, a gesture of thoughtfulness… all unspoken but carrying a strong message. They cost nothing really, but are priceless.  Thank you, Doug Austin, for your unexpected kindness. Like my Mom used to say -- "Reach out to those within your reach. Sometimes that is enough and you have no idea how far that reach may extend."

If you are so inclined  -- wherever you are reading this blog, consider mailing a postcard with a "smile and wave" to:

                   Doug Austin

                The Corry Manor

                640 Worth Street

                 Corry, PA 16407

Imagine for a moment what it would be like for him to realize that there are people all over the United States and even in several other countries where people happened upon this blog who are returning his smile and his wave. (Feel free to click on Share as well... Imagine for a moment what that might do...)