In Times of Need. (original) (raw)

Things happen! That is not consoling in the aftermath of either natural disaster or personal tragedy where there is loss of property and/or life. First Responders are to be commended for their applying skills of training, physical abilities, and mental alertness, oftentimes placing their own safety at risk. Events could include hurricanes in the Gulf Coast region, tornadoes in the heartland, wildfires in the western states, or flooding situations. Actions are sometimes heroic and deserving of honor and recognition.

There are personal instances, too, of private individuals who demonstrate acts of compassion, care, and concern for others. The �others� could be a neighbor or a total stranger. The Samaritan act could be that of preparing a meal, providing for basic necessities, or consoling with understanding and sincere empathy. In that moment of time, the injured party may need an ear to listen or a shoulder to cry on or a silent comfort of one�s embrace. These providers do not get their names in the local newspaper or their faces on the evening telecasts. Rather, my opinion is that these providers simply want to feel that they are �doing the right thing� for their fellow mankind in need.

I feel confident that readers will know someone who has been a �Personal Responder�; or, perhaps they themselves have had opportunities of charitable acts. My mother was one of those benevolent individuals, consistent and dependable. She would certainly not have wanted publicity for �simply being there� in someone�s hour of need. In memoriam, I now give her recognition for �services rendered�.

Effie Robertson Martin [1911-2009]

In her seventies, Effie was working at the Pine Shadows Retreat in Porter, TX �taking care of the old people�. Her duties included preparing food in the kitchen, serving meals in the dining room and clean-up afterwards, and light housekeeping. She enjoyed the camaraderie and interaction with co-workers and residents. Before marriage, she worked at the Rettig�s Ice Cream Parlor in the Heights and with the Harris County Parks and Recreation Department as an events coordinator. Throughout her lifetime, Effie was actively involved with local church and civic groups as a volunteer collecting food, clothing, and personal items for those who were �struggling to make ends meet�; sometimes, providing needed transportation. She would often visit and send greeting cards to shut-ins. Her personal commitment to kindness is a model worth following.

© Bruce MartinThey Shoe Horses, Don't They?

May 1, 2013 Guest column
Related Topics: Mothers
People| Columns | Texas Town List | Texas

Custom Search

Book Hotels Here- Expedia Affiliate Network