May 31, 2013 RAK for final day of May

Quenching Thirst, Africa

It was a busy day with plenty of opportunities for random acts of kindness. I was able to help a colleague with a ride early this morning, which gave us a chance to visit since we often don't get to see each other during working hours. It was a scorcher of a day here, and many of the students had to run their timed mile in gym. One boy arrived to my class looking exhausted and overheated with sweat running down his face. I quickly handed him a dollar and told him to go buy a bottle of cold water. Finally, as I was driving away from school, I noticed two of our pupils strolling slowly on the shoulder of the road. Ninety degrees is too hot to walk two miles to the next village, so I gave them a ride. Thus ends another month of little acts to brighten someone's day. I am looking forward to the next month's adventures!

May 30, 2013 Daily Strength from Friends

Good Friends

There is a wonderful book called Daily Strength for Daily Needs which was originally published in 1884. The preface states that this volume is meant to "help strengthen the reader to perform the duties ...with cheerfulness and courage." Each page has quotes for the day which provide food for thought. I purchased two of these books, one to keep and one to give to a friend who is always ready to take a walk, have a chat, or share a cup of tea. I offered this gift to my friend today when we met to spend some time catching up on news.  Much to my surprise, when I returned home from this visit, someone had left a beautiful shrub for me to plant. Don't forget to let your friends know how much you value their presence in your life. They are irreplaceable.

Today's Quote " Thus man is made equal to every event. He can face danger for the right. A poor, tender, painful body, he can run into flames or bullets or pestilence, with duty for his guide."
R. W. Emerson

May 29, 2013 Pass A Pen Day

Classroom, Quebec

I must proclaim today to be Pass a Pen Day. In every class I had students who possessed not a single writing utensil. Normally I would be annoyed, and we would discuss the importance of being prepared for the course with the proper supplies. However, this time of year, I feel fortunate that the students are even willing to listen and participate in the  learning process! It was easiest to hand out pens with a smile and say it was a gift from me to them. Happy writing!

May 28, 2013 Spring Lunch Treat

The Pleasure of Lilacs

Finally, a beautiful day after hours of interminable rain! It was a perfect opportunity to spend time outdoors working on the flower and vegetable gardens followed by a quick lunch at our favorite coffee shop. I was remarking to my son that I hadn't yet seen a chance for an act of kindness, when he told me to check out the couple approaching the door. They were probably around 80 and dressed stylishly in matching outfits of khakis and yellow shirts. They looked so sweet, and I knew this was my RAK.  I quickly went to the counter, handed the worker a little money to cover some of their bill, and explained that they were not to be told who was paid for them. The best random acts of kindness are those that walk in on you; you never know when they will happen.

May 26, 2013 Memorial Day: Honoring the Fallen

Grave of American Revolution Soldier

Today is Memorial Day, formerly known as Decoration Day, which was created after the Civil War to honor those men and women in the Armed Forces who have died while serving our country. My plan was not very successful this afternoon, but for a good reason. I had decided to place a small American flag on the grave of a service member in some quiet cemetery off the beaten path. However, every graveyard I came upon already had miniature Stars and Stripes waving brightly from the wooden poles. Finally I located one marker from World War I who was lacking a flag, and I placed one next to it. Nearby, I noticed that another flag had been blown out of the ground, so I replaced it, pushing firmly and hoping it would stay in place. Please remember these brave soldiers who fought for our freedoms, but never returned home to be able to live them. They are the heroes of the United States of America.

May 26, 2013 Sunday Errands: Phones and Groceries

Waiting in line

I had several errands to run today including renewing a phone contract. The company to which I subscribe has a recycle program that donate phones to victims of domestic violence. I was happy to be able to give a phone to this effort. I plan on locating some other old phones we have and dropping them off at the office. Later in the day, at the grocery store as I was waiting in line, I noticed the woman behind me had few items so I let her go ahead of me. Several minutes later, I looked in back of my cart and saw a young couple who also had a handful of canned goods. I told them to go in front of me, as well.Then, I glanced back one more time to see a woman carrying a cake. As I let her pass in front of me, the store clerk laughed and said that she hoped she would see me at the register soon. It was worth the extra minutes to see how much these people appreciated being let through the line.

May 25, 2013 Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) in New England

New Hampshire

We drove in four New England states today on the way home from graduation. There wasn't much opportunity for random acts of kindness because I was in the car for most of the day. I had planned on paying the toll for the car behind us, but that idea was scratched when we took a wrong turn missing the toll. Usually something happens and a chance to surprise someone is presented to me. We stopped at a rest area in New Hampshire to stretch our legs. In the vending machine area, I overheard two young girls discuss with their mother how hungry they were and what a difficult decision the selection of snacks would be with so many machines. When they went around the corner to check out the candy bars, I approached the mother with a few one dollar bills, explained that I liked to surprise others with RAK, and asked her to share them with the girls. She was astonished and delighted to pass the gift to them. I can imagine their thrill at being able to choose an additional treat.

May 24,2013 College Graduation

College Graduation

The fours years a child spends at college flies by.It seems only days ago that the nervous college freshman was deposited in his first dorm room, and now the confident senior walks across the stage to receive his diploma! It is a joyous event filled with applause and congratulations. Then, the pandemonium begins as all these graduates must quickly move piles of belongings out of their rooms. I could see the frustration and fatigue on the faces:trip after trip, up and down miles of stairs, arms filled with crates,blankets,microwaves,and mini fridges. I decided my best act of kindness would be to hold every door and greet all with a smile, so this I did . The response was a genuine smile in return.Best wishes to all the 2013 graduates!

May 23,2013 Support For Veterans

World War II Vet

I have already written about the Honor Flight program which provides transportation for World War II vets to see the memorial in Washington DC.The first trip in my area took place recently,but one man who had planned on going was unable to attend due to illness. I heard that he was very disappointed to have missed this experience .I sent him an email expressing my hopes that he would be able to be on the next Honor Flight,thanks for his service to our country,and wishes for a speedy recovery. I know many vets are never told how much their service is appreciated. Please take a few minutes to send a message or make a phone call to these important men and women.

May 22, 2013 Backpacks

Students with Backpacks, Italy

It is the end of the school year and most materials are in short supply. I have been distributing paper, pens, and pencils frequently; no one has the time or inclination to purchase these items with only three weeks left. A usable backpack is another matter, however. Everyone carries their books in a pack, so when one boy's bag ripped right in front of me, I knew I had to assist him. I took the pack home and reattached the strap and repaired the bottom seams which were all frayed. I doubt there is much life left in that bag, but it should last long enough for him to finish the school year.

May 21, 2013 International Visitors

Place Jacques Cartier, Montreal

The exchange program continued today when about seventy students from Quebec visited our school to spend a few hours with their American pen pals. Amidst the excitement and trepidation due primarily to language misgivings, the students attended classes together. Lunch is, of course, a major event at any high school because it is very important to sit and talk to the correct people. My instructions were clear: include everyone and make sure they have something to eat. I quickly realized that some of our neighbors from the North did not have American money. One of my older students as well as one of the ninth graders generously paid for two meals, and I left money with the cashiers to hand out to the others who had only Canadian currency. I know that all who wanted to buy a meal were able to purchase one. This program has proven to be an invaluable experience bringing teenagers together at a time in their lives when they remain open to meeting people from various backgrounds.

May 20, 2013 Setting High Goals

" I believe in setting goals really high. Then, if you stumble, you still might be very good in the eyes of others. But, if you set them low, once you get there, you're going to be satisfied with what is probably not your best. You're never going to push yourself to achieve even more. That's what dreams are about, aren't they? " Derek Jeter

Adriatic Sea, Italy

Too often we are satisfied with mediocrity. Being indifferent, not caring, shrugs of "whatever" with a roll of the eyes are commonplace and often admired as if striving for excellence is a trait to be disparaged. Rather than giving up on these uninspired individuals, we need to encourage them to set high goals, and assist them in attaining them. I put the above quote in a frame today and gave it to a young woman who exemplifies the desire and focus to go after her dreams. All of us can perform small actions to inspire others to establish  meaningful objectives in their lives and work to fulfill them.

May 19, 2013 Thirsty?

The Pleasure of Water, France

When I am at work, finding time to run to the restroom, get a drink, or have a bite to eat have to be scheduled. One can not bid farewell to a class of twenty-five teenagers and run out the door to fulfill some basic need. Chaos could result or at the very least some valuable teaching time would be lost Perhaps that is why I am aware that when others are working and I am not, these employees may need a break, but are unable to take one. Today I had to go grocery shopping. As in usually the case on a Sunday, the store was filled with customers. While I was waiting in the checkout line, I saw a couple of workers whom I know. I asked them to choose a beverage from the cooler located next to the cash register, added their selections to my large pile of groceries, and paid for them along with my food.  They seemed happy to have a unexpected drink in the middle of their shift, and I was delighted to have offered them a little surprise.

May 18, 2013 The Circus

Elephant, Tanzania

Hear ye, hear ye! The circus is coming to town! Children and adults alike enjoy an afternoon at the circus oohing and aahing over the high flying artists and the prancing wild animals. Today I bought tickets for children who would not normally be able to attend due to financial constraints. I am sure they will have an exciting afternoon under the big top. I am always willing to support new experiences for needy youngsters.

May 17, 2013 The Gift of Words

Happy Reading!

In these days of technology, it is difficult to find people who read the newspaper, page through a magazine, or devour a book. Print is being replaced by digital methods of gathering information. I have a Kindle and often use the Internet to research a topic, but I still prefer to turn the pages with my fingers and write messages in the margins with my own hand. Today I gave a French/English dictionary to a student. Yes, I realize that most people use Google to find the translation, but this student has a spark which leads me to believe that she will enjoy thumbing through the listings of expressions and studying the meanings of those verbose French remarks. I have seen her curiosity about the world beyond our classroom, and I think that she will take this little book to expand her knowledge of terms and utterances. A dictionary is a treasure chest of new phrases waiting to be expressed orally or in writing. Happy reading!

May 16, 2013 Trip to Quebec

American and Quebecois Students, Candiac, Quebec

One can not truly learn to communicate well in another language without understanding the culture. I am fortunate that a couple of miles to the north of my school live thousands of francophone people. Today I accompanied sixty students to a school in Quebec to visit their pen pals. It was an interesting experience to watch both groups interact with limited language skills. I was proud of my students for their behavior and enthusiasm in an unfamiliar situation. My Quebecois counterpart has worked diligently to keep this program flourishing. This afternoon before we departed, I gave her a book of stories about Americans who have shown determination in their lives during difficult circumstances. I believe that our small project helps confront misunderstanding between nationalities when often we are more alike than not.

May 15, 2013 The Cost of Graduation

The Importance of Graduation Gowns

The announcements had been made all week that the caps and gowns were arriving on Wednesday, and the payment was due at the time of pick-up. The senior class photo would also be taken of the students in their regalia. I had a nagging feeling that not everyone could afford these outfits, and so with the help of the secretaries, we identified a few who might struggle to paid this fee. I chose one girl who merited a little financial help, quietly asked a co-worker to pass my contribution to the collector of money, and I left the mass of excited seniors. I was later informed that this student was overjoyed to have a cap and gown. She hadn't believed that she could be in the picture with her class because she had no money to pay for the clothing. It brought tears to my eyes to hear of her excitement and appreciation for this small gift at such an important time in her life.

May 14, 2013 Paige's Butterfly Run

The Joy of Healthy Children

The word cancer strikes fear in the hearts of everyone and when it is a child who is battling the disease it is even more frightening. There are several families in my region who have had to cope with the ordeal of cancer. They become experts at the terminology of the illness and treatments that their children must endure. There are many events to help these parents pay for some of their expenses and assist in funding ongoing research for cures. One such group is called Paige's Butterfly Run which is in memory of a young girl from Syracuse. My niece is participating in this race, and today I  made a donation to support this cause. I am forever grateful for the health of the children I work with as well as those in my family, but we mustn't forget that our fellow citizens who are confronting cancer need our emotional, spiritual, and financial assistance.

May 13, 2013 View from Another's Perspective

Travel from a Different Perspective

The auditorium had emptied quickly after the performance, and the spectators had gathered in the lobby to greet one another. Conversations were animated and congratulatory as all had enjoyed the concert. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a woman and a man waiting patiently behind the crowd to exit. She sat in a wheelchair, and it was obvious that the group was oblivious to their plight. I asked them quietly if they wanted to pass through the throng to which they nodded. By moving a few chairs and a table, I was able to create a  passageway for the couple to travel, and they were on their way with smiles and words of thanks. Sometimes, one can make a difference by noticing others from a new perspective and recognizing their unique situation. The bystanders weren't intentionally ignoring these people. They simply had looked over the wheelchair in the crowd.

May 12, 2013 Mother's Day

Lake Champlain, NY

It was a beautiful day to celebrate motherhood. I was fortunate to be able to spend the afternoon with my husband, my oldest son, his wife who is the youngest mother in the immediate family, and my granddaughter hiking along the shores of the lake under the large stands of hickory trees. It was a perfect occasion to reflect on the joys of being a mother. The connection between mother and child never diminishes despite the years passing by and distance causing separation. When I talked to my mother today, I felt as if she were sitting at the kitchen table with me sharing stories as we love to do. We have lived 3,000 miles apart for thirty years now, but the bond remains tight. I also made the effort to reach out to my sisters-in-law and my sister to wish them a joyous day for they are wonderful mothers raising a crop of healthy, caring, and active children. And to my own children, my conversations with you today were beautiful.  Mothers are often taken for granted, and a little recognition allows them to know how important they are to all of us!

May 11, 2013 Silly Entertainment

Silliness, New Orleans

A sense of humor is such a personal characteristic. There are jokes that others find hysterical, and I don't even crack a smile. Yet, when I rattle off a plethora of puns, others grimace, begging me to stop. Laughing is good medicine for the soul; most of us could use a heavier dose of giggles and less of seriousness. Today I found a particular comic strip amusing. Every time I read it, I continued to laugh aloud. It begged to be shared, so I cut it out of the newspaper, put it in a colorful card, wrote a "thinking of you" message, and dropped it in the mail. I am certain  the recipient will find it humorous. Go out and spread the laughter. It is good for all of us!

May 10, 2013 Making Crepes

A Traditional French Lunch, Monaco

Americans are perceived as gourmands rather than gourmets; we prefer quantity to quality. While this isn't true for all of us, we certainly do enjoy a good, hearty meal. As part of learning vocabulary about food, we also discuss cultural differences of gastronomy in my classes. Many of my students are convinced that no one offers tastier meals than their favorite fast-food restaurant, but these same pupils are very interested in cooking. Today, I taught them how to make crepes, the thin French pancakes which are filled with fruit and whipped cream. It was a lesson in language, measurements, culture, and cuisine all rolled into one delectable crepe! What a pleasure to witness their success and know that they can easily prepare this treat for their families.

May 9, 2013 Lack of Water

Pacific Ocean, Oregon

One takes water for granted until it is in short supply. The drinking fountains near my classroom have been broken for at least a week. It has been hot and dry in recent days, and the trek to the other fountains is a long one which takes time away from class, so most of the requests to get a drink are denied. I helped a bit today by taping money on all the vending machines in the high school. I am sure it was a welcome surprise for those who came upon it; however, I hope the water fountains are repaired soon.

May 8, 2013 Cookies for the Custodian

The Challenge of Maintaining a Building

Although this blog was designed to document my planned and random acts of kindness performed during 2013, I was the recipient of so many gestures of goodwill today, that I would be remiss if I didn't thank people for them. This morning I received a heartfelt note from a close colleague which touched me deeply, and this afternoon as part of teacher appreciation week, we were served a delicious luncheon by parents, staff, administrators, and Student Council. The sweets arrived early to the table in the teachers room which allowed us to snack on them all morning- a type of breakfast, brunch, lunch extending several hours! On a second  trip to the baked goods feast, I saw one of our maintenance men lying on his back taking apart a drinking fountain. This employee is the go-to guy for any and all repairs in this large building. I quickly brought one of the delicious cookies to him and invited him to our meal. I hope he was able to attend, but it is possible that he couldn't find the time. He never seems to have a spare moment with all the needs of this school. At least, I know he enjoyed the cookie!

May 7, 2013 Friends and Stars

“Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there”

 

 

Good Friends

So often, we are inundated with a multitude of mundane tasks which make it difficult to focus on issues that are more important . When the "to do" list doesn't include reaching out to those we care about, it is time to re-evaluate our priorities. There are people whose friendship I cherish, but I don't take the time to let them know. Today I wrote the above quote on post-it notes and placed them on the car windows of  several individuals. I hope they enjoyed the message at the end of the work day and appreciated that someone was thinking of them.

May 6, 2013 French 4 Fashion Show

Show Practice in the Hall

I have learned through my many years of teaching that there are some traditions that must be continued. It began more than twenty-five years ago as a simple in-class activity to help students learn vocabulary words for clothing and write descriptions. Now, decades later, the children of those first students are still producing the "fashion show" for audiences of over three hundred peers. The production took place today, and I was letting my students in to the building ninety minutes before they normally arrive. They came to practice, to release stage fright, and just to have plenty of time before the performance. I took the first few to our school store and bought them  beverages. Their excitement was contagious, and while sipping our hot drinks we shared laughter and camaraderie. I believe making learning fun is a memory that will remain with them for years to come.

May 5, 2013 Walk for MS

Delicate Spring Flowers

Today a friend and I participated in a  walk to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis (or MS) which is a chronic disease that attacks the central nervous system.  This illness is common in the area we inhabit, and most of us know someone dealing with the symptoms. The sun shone brightly and a cool breeze blew gently as we joined one hundred participants in a three mile stroll to bring people together and give names to the faces of those who live with this disease.  Some were in wheelchairs, others walked with canes, and many were simply there to raise money to fund the groups that search for cures to this malady.  Walks like this one highlight the spirit of a community, the compassion of the citizens, and the determination of scientists to find treatments for the many illnesses that humans encounter. It is inspiring to be part of such a group of caring people.

May 4, 2013 Rail Trail Trek

View of Vermont Farm from Rail Trail

The weather demanded that one spend time outside today- clear blue skies, the brilliant sunlight making the new leaves sparkle with verdant hues. I went with some friends to hike a portion of the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, a 26.4 mile path through northern Vermont. What a delight to meander amid acres of rich farmland while listening to the calls of the birds and watching the minnows dart about in the small brook. Along our trek ,we came upon a driver's license that someone had dropped. Rather than leave it for the wind to carry away, I put it in my pack and mailed it to the address on the card. The owner will be surprised that it was located and returned, but it seems the right action to do. I will be heading out on this tranquil Rail Trail again; Vermont knows how to encourage their residents and visitors to enjoy the Green Mountain State!

May 3, 2013 May Day Relay for Life

The Purple Professors

I had the opportunity today to encourage students and colleagues to "paint" the school purple to celebrate those survivors of cancer and remember those whom we have lost to this disease. The halls were decorated with an assortment of purple ribbons, banners, streamers and balloons. The majority of the faculty sported purple shirts and many of the student body were also decked out in purple attire. Those who had forgotten were able to buy a purple ribbon which further supported this important cause. It was a special way to end the week by highlighting that we must continue to fight to find a cure for cancer. Kudos to the county organizers of this May Day for Relay event!

May 2, 2013 YUDA Bands: Making a Friend Happy

YUDA Band

My students come to me with the best ideas. A few weeks ago, one of my juniors asked if I could help her with a service project at our school called the YUDA Band Project. This effort involves selling bracelets made by teenagers in Guatemala to help fund scholarship programs to enable them to continue their studies. I was thrilled to assist her in attaining the approval and completing necessary paperwork. The bracelets arrived today; the interest  from students and teachers was immediate. One colleague's attention was quickly drawn to a bracelet with two hearts, and she asked me to set it aside until she had the money. I put it away, but as soon as she was out of sight I paid for it and sent the project organizer to this instructor's room with the desired bracelet. Seeing her smile and receiving a big hug later this morning made my day. It is the little things that can make a friend happy sometimes.

May 1, 2013 Surprise Bouquet

Surprise Bouquet

I smiled in wonder at the bright bouquet that my husband carried in early this morning from the driveway. Who had left these lovely blooms during the night? Despite my questions to various people, the true gift bearer will remain unknown although I have an idea! I shout out a loud thank you to whomever offered these daisies. You made my day.

 Yesterday the quarterly payment for water services was due, and although our rates have remained steady, people still struggle to pay this bill. I  requested the help of the village secretaries for today's action, and of course, they were delighted to assist me. I asked them to anonymously select a family who works hard, but simply has troubling making ends meet due to difficult circumstances. My small amount will help a little to decrease some of their expenses. I know how tough it is when money is tight; it is my turn to aid those who deserve a break.