I may get the byline for this column, but there are a few dozen folks with whom I happily share writing credit this month. If you were at Rollier’s or Commonwealth Press and took a moment to place a note in one of our Kindness Crates, I’m talking to you. (Well … writing to you.)
As a refresher, this column serves as a collection of all the good that’s going on in Mt. Lebanon — a spot for your stories of hope, inspiration and kindness. Our Kindness Crates are one way we’re gathering these stories. The instructions at each crate station are simple: “Using the paper provided, please share who or what you’re grateful for today, an act of kindness someone did for you, or a moment that brought you hope.”
And, my Lebo neighbors, you have shown up.
Within days of our Kindness Crates making their debuts at Rollier’s and Commonwealth Press, your notes began pouring in.
I must tell you I was smiling like a butcher’s dog each time I checked the crates, seeing how many notes had been added since the last time I stopped by. As I unfolded each colorful note, I pictured the moments that guided that paper to my hands: the author stopping at the Kindness Crate, reading the instructions, either unsure what — if anything — to write or absolutely certain of what to say, then choosing to put pen to paper to share part of their story with all of us.
To say “thank you” in written form with a full and grateful heart.
So please read on to find out what our neighbors are grateful for right now.
From Rollier’s …
• I’m a mom of three adult children, and I was blown away by a random act of kindness by a young lady I later learned is a high school senior. We had never met before, but while passing at my place of work I told her she smelled nice and asked what perfume she was wearing. She couldn’t remember the name but said she would let me know.
A week later, she came back and handed me a handwritten card, a chocolate bar and a bottle of that perfume! I was so touched that I still can’t believe she did that for me. What an amazing and kindhearted young lady who is surely making this world a better place. To Vanessa: Keep smiling. You are special!
• People being kind and caring — Vivian, age 6
• I am grateful for my home, mom and sisters. — Marley
• Ballet class with my friends
• My cousins
• Someone held a door for me
• I am grateful for Roblox and my iPad
• I’m grateful for my wonderful lil’ sistah!
• I’m grateful for my teachers
• I am thankful for my community. — Corbie
• I’m grateful for who held my hand on The Phantom
• I am grateful to have a friend like Cole K.
• I am very grateful for my girlfriend, Talia, who is my bestest friend and the light of my life!
• Grateful for my dad, Richard Sovchen. He is 83 years old. He moved me to Lebo when I was 1 so I could attend a better school system. He rocks!
• My friends who drop everything to walk and talk
• I’m grateful for all the opportunities I have
• I saw my old friend Margaret H. today. What a blessing!
• I am grateful for all my beautiful friends and family who bless my life every single day
• My mom helped take my children to their sports. It takes a village!
• Family, friends and thoughtful neighbors
• I am grateful for waking up today — my body works and the sun is shining!
• Dee: always patient, kind and helpful
• I’m so incredibly grateful for my employers. They have been nothing but kind, supportive and understanding since I started working here — especially during a time of need. — Kristol H.
• The monks who are walking for peace have brought enlightenment. Thankful.
• I am grateful to be celebrating 45 years of marriage to my best friend — especially because it’s Valentine’s Day!
• My dog Petey. — Lori Pratt
• I’m very grateful for my dog, who keeps me company and knows me best
• Thankful that there are $1 dog food cans I can donate to the Humane Society
• My pup meeting dog friends at Rollier’s!
From
Commonwealth Press …
• I really enjoy being with my grandma when she comes over. — Alma, age 5
• I am grateful for the support I have from friends and family. Also, having reasons to smile — even little things — makes me grateful for the life I have and the people in it.
• My cousin Galin gave me a piggyback ride
• My mom bought me a shirt
• Thank goodness for Dan and Shannon Rugh of Commonwealth Press for supporting rugby in the area and for the countless hours they spend helping teach kids the game
• I’m grateful for the people in my life and their ability to adapt and help me while I navigate hard changes. I don’t know where I’d be without them, and sometimes I don’t know how they do it.
I’m lucky.
• (To Commonwealth Press) Love your store. Love your clothes. But I have nothing I love most! Love, Olive
• (From a family of four) Today we are grateful for …
Cohen: the beautiful weather
Sutton: time with my family
Sloane: a fun walk
Kaitlyn: Lebo’s walkability
• I’m grateful for my wife, Shannon, and my two girls, Eden and Amelia — for lots of reasons.
And if I may add my own note here: I’m grateful for all of yinz, who make Lebo one wonderful place to live.
You’ll find our Kindness Crates at Rollier’s, Commonwealth Press, Lebo Subs, Salon Vivace and Babb Orthodontics. Just stop in and they’ll point you in the right direction.
You can also email me directly at yinzaregood@gmail.com.
To learn more about my “good news” podcast, visit www.yinzaregood.com.
