Gratitude

Amy had to undergo a long surgery this week, which typically lasts 10+ hours and from which one can take months to fully recover.

Never was it so obvious to me the value of community.

We have been surrounded by love – neighbours, friends, family, and coworkers have lined up to offer help. We’ve been receiving ready-to-eat meals at our door for days now.

Amy’s friends (near and far) who have experienced a similar surgery offered advice and care packages for her to take to the hospital and use at home.

We’ve been surrounded by cards, flowers, prayers, and by positive thoughts and kind words from everyone.

I kind of knew this already, but here it goes: a real community is the best way to provide support for fellow human beings.

Receiving a warm lasagna from the hand of a loving friend does much more than a cold cheque from the government. Looking someone in the eye with gratitude is good for the soul. It not only helps the immediate situation, but inspires you pay it forward, to be better, to do better, to deserve the love you have received.

This generates a virtuous cycle of goodness.

People, be there for people.

All of you who have and are helping us right now, thank you. You are wonderful.