Friends who turn out for a friend in need, are friends indeed.
Last weekend a Fort Lauderdale bar held a benefit for a longtime local bartender who, like so many others, does not have health insurance. Our friend is battling cancer and the show of support was inspiring.
This probably took place in many other locations around our nation for many other causes and that is the point of my post today. When a community takes care of its own, everybody wins.
We have so many problems today it is easy to overlook the blessings we receive and the kindnesses we witness. You may recall a few weeks ago the story of Batkid, the young boy for whom the city of San Francisco turned itself in to Gotham City, while thousands of people came out to witness Batman assist the younger version of himself in a fight for truth, freedom and the American way. It was sweet story, and now I read that a philanthropic couple has donated money to cover the significant expenses incurred while making this young man’s “Make a Wish” style dream come true. Beautiful.
As a musician, I have performed for numerous causes. If I am asked to perform, and I am available, I will always say yes. Giving back is the least any of us can do for anyone less fortunate.
I read, years ago, that most acts of kindness are generated not out of selflessness, but out of selfishness. Is it selfish to do a good deed because it mostly makes the doer feel good? By definition I would say yes. But any time someone commits an act of kindness, random or not, for another. It is a good thing.
Seeing all the negatives and hatred in our world, these bright, shining moments create pockets of good where we can heal and regain our faith in humanity. And today… that makes me feel good.