Dear Editor:
Does one ever stop and think about family, friends, acquaintances or other people around us in terms of who the individual is what is he doing for the good of humankind? Who stands out, whom should I learn from? Who is friendly. Who never says much, but offers valuable advise. Who helps if and when he can. Who never judges anyone. Who is humble. Who answers with the smile.
The time for me to do just that came when we lost one of our neighbours. I had known Jay and Marg Strom for about 15 years. Driving, or riding around our part of the country, I noticed how neatly and orderly their farm worked. Their two-storey residence, a picture of tranquil country life, was especially festive and inviting during winter. Small lighted candles in each window shone as witnesses to the nice, caring family occupying the home.
As the years passed, some 12 years ago we received an invitation to the Neighbourhood Corn Fest hosted by the Stroms. We agreed that it was a good opportunity for meeting various neighbours in our rural area of the township. So we have attended. It was a different location from their former nearby farm. I learned that Jay and Marg retired from farming. When their property adjoining neighbours died, Stroms seniors purchased the neighbour’s property.
The Corn Fest helped most of our street residents to come out, meet and socialize with others. It and the Christmas Drop-In has happened annually at Jay and Marg Strom’s lovely home. As we got to know each other better, we started doing things together. The result of neighbours working together for the safety and betterment of all was a successful petition to the township to not allow heavy trucks drive through on the road. Jay helped by offering valuable input.
Gradually I had been invited to join Jay and Marg at different events, such as Rockwood Farmers’ Parade of Lights, Audience of One Christian Theatre productions, Toronto’s Elgin Theatre show, movies, etc. We celebrated Jay and Marg 50th wedding anniversary and birthdays together.
Thinking about all that passed I realized how important the family is, how important caring friends are.
Sometimes we overlook the opportunities simple life offers us. Material things we may want, but human contact, interaction, communication, caring for and helping each other are what we should strive for, always.
Agnes Belosic,
Guelph