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This column is dedicated to acknowledge examples of positives that express the community spirit of Columbus – our town.
After suffering a stroke seven years ago, my daily travel is generally in a wheelchair. It is restrictive to say the least, but I’m really fortunate that my husband, Bob Stiles, is stronger than the average guy in his eighties. It helps that he enjoys navigating through mud and up high curbs. The antique week in Warrenton/Round Top gave him numerous opportunities to display his prowess.
As we shopped, (I, in my wheelchair), we encountered great examples of kindness. After buying a large fig leaf rubber plant, it was especially thoughtful to have a young clerk insist on carrying the plant out to our vehicle. In the same venue, a lady, (appearing to be as old as I), opened a door and assisted in getting the wheelchair over the threshold. Earlier in the day, while shopping at the Red Barn during a deluge, a merchant cordially carried my purchase outside to our van as we “wheeled” on down the aisle visiting with friends who kindly complimented our energy and presence. Sadly to say, at least four fellow merchants had passed this last year.
After rigorous shopping, we arrived in Fayetteville to have dinner at Orsak’s Cafe. A gentleman on the porch greeted us warmly and acknowledged a table for two right inside the front door. Next, he opened the door and could have been perceived as a “uniformed doorman”. Orsak’s is known for its friendliness and good food. We were waited on by a friendly young woman. After our chocolate pie dessert, and an expedient check-out, we had a group effort help with the exit. Three young men easily lifted my wheelchair out the door with me in it.
On the way home, there was a call from Cavender Ford Service telling us that our car would not be ready for pick-up until Monday. When Bob explained that the car was needed Sunday to transport me to church, they expedited the service in order to have the car ready for pickup Saturday morning. What unusually kind service.
We love football and do not let my wheelchair keep us away from the game, home or away. Getting into the stadium seat is tedious... getting down is the booger. Again, observers are quick to offer a hand. Even slight young women like Shannon Binder are quick to offer assistance. Recently, there has been a true Samaritan who has assisted Bob. He steps down from behind us to assist Bob for a safe transfer from stadium seat back to the wheelchair. That kind friend is Bradley Hernandez. If you see Bradley, please acknowledge his thoughtfulness. I’m sure it happens at other places.
Kindness is a state of mind; it is yours to give without cost. People don’t have to be in a wheelchair to receive it. It is such a bargain.
