It takes a special kind of person to remind us that even when we see things differently, we can still treat one another with dignity, compassion, and understanding. I met exactly that kind of person …
I never thought of someone trying to run me over while blowing their horn at me was an act of kindness. However, sometimes what we perceive is different from reality. Here is my story. I often …
I don’t believe in angels, but I met one in 1975. In those days, girls did not go to engineering school. We were most unwelcome. We were taking high-paying jobs away from men who deserved them. And …
Is treating people right when they are vulnerable, and you could easily dupe them, an act of kindness? I think so. Patrick and Jeremy of Milt’s Heating and Air Conditioning would differ and say, …
If you've lived in Fernandina for a while, you probably have heard of Take Stock in Children (TSIC). This celebrated organization is celebrating its 30th year as part of our community.
Since I was young, I have been taught that a small act of kindness can completely change someone’s day. A genuine smile, a kind word, or simply taking a moment to help someone can have a much …
I just returned from a trip to the Emerald Isle. Two of my dearest old friends were my companions throughout the journey. Words like "enchanting," "spectacular," and "stunning" describe Ireland …
A stroll through the Arts Market on a Saturday morning in downtown Fernandina is a feast for the eyes! There are colorful displays of jewelry, flags, paintings and more crafted by the talented …
It's been another scorcher of a summer. Many of us have retreated to our air-conditioned houses. We venture out early in the morning or late in the evening, but we appreciate the respite of our cool, …
I grew up in a two-family house owned by my grandparents. We lived upstairs and they, along with my Uncle Joe, lived downstairs. Every year my grandfather would put up a garden that was the envy of …
Like many of you, I was deeply saddened to learn of Dolly's passing. I have followed many of the tributes that have poured in for this remarkable woman. The word most often used to describe her is no …
One of the most important areas where we need to promote kindness is politics. Our political discourse at this point in time is cruel and abusive. The closest thing to this in our recent past was the …
A few months ago, a woman needed a ride to work, and I gladly offered to drive her. That woman was Louryne Spaulding. I had met Louryne while volunteering at Hope House, but I didn't know her …
I don't watch much television anymore. When I did, I always enjoyed watching "On the Road" — first with Charles Kuralt, then later with Steve Hartman. They would travel across the country, meeting …
A group of artistic American Beach ladies and children met recently at Barnabas Center, Inc., a non-profit organization in Fernandina Beach, to paint bowls in preparation for the Center's …
After Tiffany Croft passed away suddenly, her girlfriend gave me something I will treasure for the rest of my life: Tiffany’s DriFIT shirt. To some people, it may seem like just a piece of …
Nearly two decades ago, a young Angolan man, Kimba Ngana, fled his native country to escape incarceration and even death for protesting the corrupt government. He fled to Brazil. He had a dream that …
Aunt Helen was getting old. A number of unfortunate incidents had befallen her over the course of a few years. The loss of her mother and father, two brothers, and two of her sisters. A fractured …
A few weeks ago, my wife and I took a trip north to spend time with family and friends. The last three days were spent in Manhattan, visiting with my sister-in-law Laura. On Tuesday of that week, we …
My years in Fernandina Beach were filled with joy and kindness. The biggest challenge for me in writing an article on kindness was choosing which kindness to focus on. One that truly stands out …