Community Chat

[Vivian]

When I was in Paris a few months ago, I naturally did some shopping. In each store I made sure to chat with the salespeople. All were very curious to meet an American who spoke French. I had some marvelous conversations...style, politics, raising children...the talks ran the gamut. In almost every case, I was given a small gift, e.g., a keychain at a souvenir shop, a change purse at a handbag store, a jar of a local delicacy at a specialty grocery. I was so touched. I felt that the French people I met were warm, friendly people and I hope they thought well of Americans as a result of those little chats.

[WaJa61]

Such a beautiful thread, ury. There is so much good will in the world that can be overlooked. Prayers said for your husband's knee recovery.

I will mention the kindness of the hardworking locals here in this rural community, who have tractors with snow blades and other equipment. They are first out during snow to plow the long drives and the roads between them, as they go. Several times now this season. It is such a help, since the county road crews are limited and the priorities are naturally in and around the towns and cities. Then we are able to get to our neighbors to check on them and take them what they need, or bring some home if they lose their power.

[emmysmom]

I got a refund I didn't ask for!

[emmysmom]

On 3/4/2015 Vivian said: When I was in Paris a few months ago, I naturally did some shopping. In each store I made sure to chat with the salespeople. All were very curious to meet an American who spoke French. I had some marvelous conversations...style, politics, raising children...the talks ran the gamut. In almost every case, I was given a small gift, e.g., a keychain at a souvenir shop, a change purse at a handbag store, a jar of a local delicacy at a specialty grocery. I was so touched. I felt that the French people I met were warm, friendly people and I hope they thought well of Americans as a result of those little chats.

Wonderful........

[jeanlake]

Vivian -- your story about French hospitality warmed my heart. Thank you for being such a good ambassador for America.

[jeanlake]

WaJa61 -- My dad grew up in the Smokey Mountains, NC. Neighbors (who were often family) depended on one another to get through the high-country winters, or to help with farming or childcare when moms gave birth. I loved hearing his stories. Glad to hear modern-day residents have continued the good will.

emmysmom - what a treat to get a refund -- it's as good as cash!

[Q-Anu]

Thank you for this heart-warming thread, ury! Please pass the Snickerdoodles!

My much beloved grandmother (Nan) in S.Ca is planning to come visit with us for the week of Easter. A co-worker, knowing how much this means to me offered to trade off vacation time with me when she heard. I didn't even ask! Wow, that really touched my heart, and I'm sure she had made plans for that week. I'll surprise her with a special Easter basket filled with her favorite goodies.

[jeanlake]

How wonderful, QAnu, to work with good people. You're both blessed!

[SelahG]

A thread after my own heart! Loved reading all the contributions. Blessings to your husband ury for a successful recovery.

I am recovering from 2 back surgeries, going to PT---doing well now. I was worried about having it done, mostly because of the recovery time ... but I found out just how compassionate and helpful family, friends, neighbors---and yes, strangers---actually are. I should not have stressed and put it off so long. Feel very foolish about that now. Neighbors did my shopping and errands, daughter helped my husband with cooking and household chores. A sister-in-law filled in for me as much as possible in my husband's auto shop. Taking calls, making appts, ordering parts---and she lives with a permanent disability. Even members of my church stepped up. Not only bringing food, cheer, prayer and encouragement ... but provided a wheel chair to help me get into the church without falling on ice. It was more comfortable to sit in through the services than the pew, too.

[jeanlake]

Selah, so good to hear you're on the mend with lots of supportive people. My guess is you'd do the same for others. Take care of yourself