by Linda Heistman
This community never ceases to amaze me. How the same person who serves you breakfast at a local restaurant could also be the coach at a child’s event in the afternoon and then serve you cocktails at a bar later that evening is impressive.
How the person helping you deposit your check one day also volunteers to drive for the CTS van that gets you to a doctor’s appointment the next, and then shows up as part of the emergency crew at the scene of an accident.
How someone helping you muddle through taxes could also be the person giving you a room key at an area hotel…as well as serving on a couple of local volunteer committees.
How all our small businesses get hit up for freebies for local raffles, how they give a lot for good causes and how that generosity decreases their bottom line.
How there are those who struggle with physical or economic challenges, but are still willing to give of their limited time, resources, and energy to help others out.
If any of this sounds like some of the people you know it may or may not be consequential.
But to me it sounds like material for a good movie—how people can have such busy and difficult lives and still be willing to pull together for the community as a whole.
I think most of us realize what a blessing it is to live in a community like this, with an amazing collection of very different individuals who somehow make up an amazing whole.
Many in this cast of characters deserve Emmy awards because of their “can do” attitudes, even when the going gets pretty rough.
Ever since I moved here not all that long ago, I knew this to be a special place.
Since taking on the role of coordinator of SHARP, I’ve had more opportunities to experience just how special and generous the people in our community are and I’ve also learned so much from the seniors that come to be together on Wednesdays.
I love this wonderful giving spirit and am very grateful to be a part of it.
So, although a “Thank you” may seem lame compared to an Emmy, I hope this reminder of what a great community we live in brings a special encouragement to all of you.
SHARP (Senior Health Activity and Recreational Program) is a free program offered to all independent senior citizens from Woodgate to Raquette Lake.
We meet at Niccolls Memorial Church in Old Forge from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday.
Lunch during our regular Wednesday sessions is provided by the Community Health & Wellness Fund (formerly the Town of Webb Health Center Fund).
For more information, call or text (315) 225-7553, or email activitiescoordinator4seniors
@yahoo.com. Check our Facebook page anytime for updates. Search: SHARP