We are not powerless

"Building loving communities of care is a sign that we are not powerless in the face of suffering." 

-- Herbert Anderson

Every time I think about it, I am overwhelmed by people's generosity. Whenever someone stops for long enough in the rapids that we call everyday life to notice another's suffering, there is compassion. I witness this generosity of spirit every day at work, with friends, and most certainly in just about every aspect of our lives this past year. It will be a year ago next Sunday since Carol crossed the finish line at the Vermont City Marathon, and a year ago since she began a different kind of marathon. Twice, as a part of Team in Training, she has raised funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and run in events in memory of her big sister Shirley. And now Susan, who swore her marathon days were over, has laced up her running shoes to get ready for Grandma's Marathon up in Duluth. Cue the Rocky theme song. Susan, you give me goosebumps. Just like Chris the curator had in that little gallery in Jerome, Arizona, when he couldn't believe that Carol was the sister of the Wayne Norton. Really. You are that cool. Thank you.  We are not powerless.