Yesterday I ventured into St. Albert to watch the Olympic flame being carried through the city on it's way to Vancouver and the upcoming Olympic games. I am so glad I did. We were only about 2000 people watching as the flame made it's way towards Edmonton who had something like 15,000 to 20,000 people turn out but then St. Albert is a much smaller city. There was a young mother with 3 children under the age of 5 and I took great joy in helping her with the children as we patiently waited for the torch bearer......they were a joy and so cute with their pink cheeks waving their red and white banners saying "Go Canada go", what fun. Anyway when it was over and people were heading toward a warmer place the lady thanked me and said I should of been named Pollyanna. I just smiled as I said my good byes to this family....thinking about a book I had read several months ago and the author had mentioned Pollyanna in one of his chapters.
Now I am sure all of you have been called Pollyanna at some time in your life or even called some one Pollyanna. This wasn't the first time I have been referred to as Pollyanna..... I remember the first time and how I felt. I was hurt and felt this person thought I was naive even ignorant because I tried to see the good in any situation. I like to think I am realistic and try to deal with each situation in a respectful but yes, positive way. Now when I think back how upset I was and how hurt my feelings were I realize what a waste of energy that was. Pollyanna is known for turning what was a unhappy town into a happy place, brought joy to those who were so joyless and taught people how to love and care for each other. So I guess if I am going to be compared to someone then I'll wear this nickname proudly.....although humbly. There is so much negativity in the world, people who are only concerned with themselves and people who look to blame others for their problems. I look at what is happening now in Haiti and my heart is heavy with concern and sadness. A small donation didn't make me feel any better either. I wanted to board a plane and in some small way bring some comfort to these people by holding a frightened child or hugging a grieving parent. I am not qualified to go to Haiti nor are my needles up to date. I called The Red Cross and checked. I only wish I were. In this time of unrest in our world I think it is time that we reach out and lend a hand to those less fortunate. We all love and take care of our families, friends and neighbours and if we don't we should. Let's remember these poor people who have endured so much, let's remember the fallen soldiers and the soldiers who even now are putting their lives on the line for our freedom, and their families who are waiting patiently for their loved ones return. Let's all become Pollyanna, share a smile, give a lonely person a hug and give of our ourselves even it's only to open a door for someone, make some cookies or give some of our personal time to those in need to make this world just a little bit better place.
Good Night and God Bless.......and many, many hugs.
79 comments:
that's right.
there is nothing wrong with having a tender heart.
in fact...it's what we should all strive for.
many prayers going up for those who are suffering~
chasity
Hi Chasity, so happy you are well enough to comment.....thank you for your kind words....:-) Hugs
Bernie, I would rather be called a Pollyanna than Scruge. I am like you my first thought was I wish I could go to help. We have connections and some priest friends in Haiti, but that is not a realistic thing for me to do. I am excited too for the Olympics to come to Canada. I will love watching.
QMM
Well said! The people in Haiti are in my thoughts and prayers ... I am watching on TV as I type. It is so sad .. my heart aches for those people.
You are such a wonderful person I can tell through your blog.
How exciting about the Olympics ..I can't wait until February!
Blessings & Hugs,
Donna
Peggy it wasn't realistic for me either, would love to be younger and have the energy it will take to help those people....God Bless Them....I love watching the Olympics......:-) Hugs
Hi Donna, there are times I have to change my TV channel as the pain is so great....been praying so much for these people.
I so enjoy watching the Olympics every 4 years......:-) Hugs
I think that as a good Canadian, you should be called an "Anne Shirley." But it just doesn't work, does it? :)
A/C I have been called worse, but I did love that show. I saw the play live in PEI and Megan Fellows(sp) acted as Anne in it. Fantastic ......:-) Hugs
What a good friend you are to the world.
What the world needs is more love like yours...
I've always loved Pollyanna. Been accused a time or two of that myself. Personally, I don't think I would change my ability to do behave as such, for a second. I hope it will serve me well.
Haiti - I can't imagine. We must do what we can.
And thank you for a glimpse into the Olympics. I'm eager to watch. What a sight to see the Olympic torch.
Jackie, I am no different than you are my friend.....in fact I think I would say you have a heart of gold who helps everyone, I'm not quite that good......:-) Hugs
Julie, it really was a thrill to see the flame, something I have never seen before and probably won't again.
Don't ever change my friend, you are fine just the way you are.
Haiti is so heavy on my heart Julie, I can't seem to stop thinking of these poor people.
........:-) Hugs
Yes, we do need more folks like you - spreading the love, respect and appreciation for others all around!!
Karin, I think all of my blogging friends are very much like me, including you.....we have been blessed with love and kindness in our lives and only want to share it. ........:-) Hugs
Having a compassionate tender heart is a gift. I pray daily that my heart melts more and more in this area. Blessings to you Bernie.
Good morning Bernie...
I understand your questioning of being labeled a Polyanna, I think "Angel on Earth" would be more correct...True concern for others just comes natural to you.
The devastation, turmoil, suffering and heartache in Haiti has saddened me, but I never once thought of going there myself, you are an angel...if anyone!
I can't stop thinking of the children, severe thunderstorms once left Alivia very fearful for awhile, can't imagine the fear this has caused the little ones.
I once watched, from my son's driveway, the carrying of the Olympic Torch...most of the grandchildren were very small.
Love...Wanda
You know, Bernie, you are Pollyanna! I've been called that too (and it was meant as a derogatory comment), I posted about it awhile ago, but I'm with you, if that's the worst anyone can call us, well, that's not so bad now, is it?
My heart goes out to these poor people in Haiti too, they have little to nothing and now this to endure. I have heard that bands of thugs rule much of the area and they loot and steal on a normal basis, and it has increased now with the earthquake. There is talk of sending the military there to make sure aid gets into the right hands, but newscasters are asking what happens when they get shot at by these thugs? Is this war? Can they shoot back? It's all just a mess and has been for some time.
It's unbelievable the raw degradation of some lives. And it does make you feel helpless. I heard the best way to donate is through the military, but I'm not sure, you hear so many conflicting opinions.
The world surely is a crazy place, and I wonder how anyone can expect the problems of the world to be solved when so many of us can't even keep peace in our own lives.
Well, you can see I am not much of a Pollyanna today.
It's hard to find the good in a situation like this, but you do see little rays of light as cameras capture these poor souls helping to dig out neighbors, providing whatever care they can with no medical supplies on hand. People do care, so that's something anyway.
And today, no matter how heavy our hearts are, we will all go about our business, and share our joys and our heartaches, as we should.
Love to you,
Eileen
Hear Hear,, that was a good post. Yep we are in a struggle. "The Boss" and I were talking (worried) about Haiti last night. The news cannot convey how those people must be feeling. Keep on a'keepin on and I kind of like the sound of Polly-Glenn..whadda ya think?
Bernie,
I would take that as a compliment to be call a Pollyana. Having a kind heart and always finding good in people and the world, is a wonderful way to be.
It is so very sad about the people in Haiti. My heart goes out to them.
Wow! That must have been so exciting to see the Olympic torch. I am looking foward to the Olympics. My favorite is the Ice Skating.
Have a wonderful day.
Take care.
Ya, this Ozarks farm chick has taken on the name a time or two. Heeheehe! We should all strive to be kind to one another. Think of the world we could live in if all would do the same.
From the hills and hollers of the Missouri Ponderosa, Ya'll have a wonderfully blessed day!!!
Very nice Bernie and I agree as I was also thinking about this last night. It can be difficult in our world today to try and be nice and help others. There is so much rudeness anymore, but I still keep trying as this is how I was raised.
It's a shame that so many people don't teach their own children the Golden Rule anymore. But all we can do is keep trying and maybe at least one person somewhere will carry on the helping and caring spirit!
Love Di
HI BERNIE-
Here's to 'Pollyannas" every where - this world need many. :-) AND I am impressed that you checked to see if your shots were up to date so if you decided to travel to Haiti you could go. Your positive and realistic approach to life is SO inspiring and so many people are better in their life because of you. Me included!!
Love to you my friend
Gail
peace......
Watching Diane Sawyer in Haiti during the newscast last evening was heartwrenching. She stood there not three feet from death and shook her head. The injured, the chidren, the missing, the tremendous need - all of it is overwhelming. We take so much for granted in this country. I am praying for them and for those lost. I know, it's hard to find the meaning in such tragedy, but I am confident that our Loving Father is among all of us, working to make us all open our eyes and truly see what "is" and know what "can be".
Thank you for the compliment on Cooper. He's as sweet as he looks!
Love you
Abbey
You are a very special person, Bernie!
I am very happy to call you "friend! "
Hugs!
Margie:)
P.S Have a wonderful weekend!
Karin, I honestly believe that most people are of the Pollyanna type and do help others....:-) Hugs
JBR, I am sure your heart is melting as we watch the news, it is all so sad.......:-) Hugs
Wanda, you have a husband and family who need you very much, I am on my own so I really wanted to be able to help. My life is easier to do some things as it's is only me really who is involved. I so wish I could do something for those children, it has bothered me so badly that there are times I have to turn away from the news, those dear people are hurting in every way......:-) Hugs
Eileen, this horrible situation will bring out both the good and the worse in people. Unfortunately that is the way of the world but I watched this morning as people sang and clapped as they marched through the streets to support those around them....to see them come together like that was awesome but I know that just the stress of the situation people will loose hope and desparate people do desparate things.
I know how much you care and no matter what happens the world goes on, the sun comes up and that is as it should be. Big hugs to Jayden and Mia and I am so sorry to hear Barbara's mother has passed away, more sadness.....:-) Hugs
Polly-Glen sounds fine to me...love it. I think all people are worried today and praying for those in Haiti.....my heart is so heavy today.......:-) Hugs
Polly-Glen sounds fine to me...love it. I think all people are worried today and praying for those in Haiti.....my heart is so heavy today.......:-) Hugs
Anne, it was exciting to see the Olympic Flame pass by and to hear the people cheer and clap. The atmosphere was electric.
The USA is being wonderful to Haiti and I am so proud to be their neighbour, you must be so proud of your country. USA always seem to rise to the occasion when a country needs their help. Wonderful......:-) Hugs
Nessy, I am sure you have been called Pollyanna as you should be, it is a compliment. Thank you for visiting my friend......:-) Hugs
Diana, I think the way we were raised has a lot to do with how we are as adults. I was blessed with wonderful parents who thought that no matter how little we had we were meant to share it and they lived by example. I thank God for my family every day of my life, I was so blessed to be shown love and kindness......:-) Hugs
Gail if I could go to Haiti to help I would be there now....I am so drawn to help these dear people but I wasn't qualified so I will donate what I can and pray as much as possible for healing for this country. I think the USA is doing a wonderful job of helping and the amounts the Americans are donating is absolutely a beautiful thing to watch......:-) Hugs
Abbey, the USA is doing all it can to help and be there for Haiti, I am very proud to be their neighbour. In my opinion they always rise up to help countries in need.
Cooper is beautiful my friend, have a wonderful day.....:-) Hugs
Hi Margie, I so love opening my comments and see your smiling face. I am happy you are feeling better........:-) Hugs
i love Pollyanna because she brought sunshine into each person's life she touched. i always dreamed i was Pollyanna but have never been referred to as such.
Bernie, i know this mother meant it in the kindest of ways. you are precisely the person i am thankful for when i venture out with children. what a blessing you are!!!
Lisa, thank you for your kind words, and it was fun for me to share the joy of the Olympic torch with the children and that poor little mother was so sweet and had her hands full with the new baby, I thought it wonderful that she wanted to share the occasion with her children......:-) Hugs
just call me Pollyana...smiles.
Sadly there are always those who take the wind from our sails if we allow them. Sail on, friend. The wind is picking up again :).
xxAmy
OK Brian, I guess it's not that bad after all is it.....:-) Hugs
Amy, so happy you are here, and yes one must keep moving forwar always.......:-) Hugs
You SHOULD have been named Pollyanna. It fits your whole outlook on life - and it is a great one! I know what you mean about wanting to pack up and go to Haiti. Reality is, not all of us CAN do that. So we do what we can. And some (like you) do far more than others!
I've been hearing SOME good news out of Haiti - people who had loved ones living there or ministering there have gotten word of them being alive & OK. That is SUCH good news.
OK. I don't know where I've been! In another zone for sure. Had I been here the past two days I would have been nudged to get my birthday greeting for Eileen up! I am so aggravated with myself. I have really been out of it!
I've not only been fuzzy with my fitness; I've been fuzzy with my friendships!
Rebecca, wondered where you were yesterday....thats okay we all have fuzzy days, so glad everything is okay. Enjoy your books........:-) Hugs
Thanks for letting me know about the link for Gary Stryker's CaringBridge. It is fixed so you can go and read if you like.
Blessings to you and yours,
Abbey
I think it's wonderful that you have a loving spirit. Reaching out to others is good for the one doing so! Every little bit of kindness is a big thing to someone else I feel. I too wish I could go to Haiti and help out in any way I can. I will keep praying. Take care!
Hi Bernie,
i heard you have founded Violeta`s story !
Please share the link to alls wich you know, we try to help so much this childrens and aboout Violeta... what especial lady ... what amzing story !
Our hears are with the families from Haiti ,too !!!
-:) Hugs and love !!!
It is more of a compliment being called Pollyanna, I often refer to my own Pollyanna Complex because I always look for the good in every bad!
You are caring and kind, I wish there were more people in the world like you x
Hi Bernie, Your warmth and compassion always make me feel better and want to BE better. Keep being just who you are! Sometimes when I see the Misery others have to endure, I wonder how I can be so fortunate. When I realize my own good fortune, I feel more commitment to share. We do not live in a vacuum.
Abbey, I have been following Gary's progress and continue to pray for his full recovery. I enjoyed your daughter's blog this morning, thank you for sending me over........:-) Hugs
Cheryl, when one witnesses what we has been happening in Haiti, we realize how blessed we are, and oh I would so love to help these dear people.......:-) hugs
Kelly, yes I finally found Violetta's story and was very moved by it. If beginning your blog is tell her story that is wonderful but I do not believe one should blog to raise money no matter how good the cause....there are many other fine and respectful ways to do this. Good Luck Kelly and thank you both for helping these lovely children.....:-) Hugs
Sara, you have been such an inspiration to me, I love your attitude and many could learn much by your mothering and your wonderful attitude.....:-) Hugs
Oh Barb, I so know how you feel. I have been so blessed with so much and try to share as much as I can, you are beautiful just as you are and I am sending you all good wishes for continued health....Hugs
Hi Bernie,
I have never been called PollyAnna, but very often I was called 'Mother Teresa', and I thought at the time it was a derrogotory statement, however, now that I realize who she is, her quiet servanthood and ways, I only 'wish' I were like her.
I have not been blogging because I have been working 12-14 hour days for the last two weeks. I am exhaused, and it appears I am coming down with a terrible cold.
I have a ton of new makeup from Covergirl that has been taken off the shelves to make room for their new products. I would love to share...let me know if you are interested! I will probably take most of it to YES...(Youth Emergency Services)...I am sure they will find a use for it.
I missed the Olympic torch : ( all I saw was the traffic!...glad you got to see it Bernie! ((((Many Hugs))) T
Wish the world had a few more like you. What happened in Haiti is frighteningly sad. I read somewhere that the amount of money they are receiving is more than they can handle, but there aren't institutions, banks to streamline the funds and direct them to the needy. No electricity food. Gosh it saddens me no end!
Terri, I am so happy to hear from you. I was getting concerned for you. I think being compared to Mother Theresa is a wonderful compliment......no better compliment in my mind.
Yes Terri I would love some of your extra make up and I would like to have some for Diana and Katie, I will mail it to them if that is okay with you....we can meet for lunch whenever it is good for you, please call me or leave me a message on Facebook....:-) Hugs
Stillness, I am glad so many are donating to Haiti, they will work out the logistics eventually to see all monies get to where it is most needed I am sure.
Take care sweetie.....:-) Hugs
There is nothing wrong with being a Pollyanna! Would that the world was FULL of them!!! I guess people are so afraid of being taken for granted or cheated that it is better be a cynic. At least a Pollyanna has HOPE!!! God Bless you!! Cathy
Cathy, thank you for your kind words, and I do think we have far too many cynics in this world. Have a wonderful weekend....:-) Hugs
Bernie you are so right. Beautifully writted and I agree with your sentiments entirely. The world needs more like you...
ED, thanks sweetie. I just left your blog and am still chuckling, but I am sorry about your toe. Rest up my friend....:-) Hugs
Thanks for visiting my blog. Yes, we need to reach out to those around us and around the world. Thank you for your tenderness in thinking of the people of Haiti.
Lorrie
Although I'm not by nature a Pollyanna, I am getting a bit better at it.
The people in Haiti have been much on my mind. If we all send a little something then that would make a really big something. However we will have to be giving for years as they are in such a mess.
You are such a selfless person and wouldn't have been a bit surprised for you to jump on a plane to help these unfortunates.Looking at The News makes you feel like that.
Nuts in May
Bernie,
Your compassion and empathy for all of humanity makes you a very special person indeed. You are a candle in the darkness - whether it's helping that mom with her children, sharing a kind and loving word with a friend or reaching out with a donation to those in need - your flame burns brightly my friend and it's warmth is felt by us all.
Love,
Quieten
I've wondered about the feasibility and possibility of going to Haiti, too, in these past days.
I wonder if many, many people going to Haiti now to help would be a good thing -- or be unmanageable?
It's such a frustrating situation.
That's interesting that you went to see the Olympic torch. Go Canada 2010!
HiLorrie, so nice to see you here. I think we all are praying for Haiti....so, so sad....:-) Hugs
Maggie I think most of us want to help these poor people in Haiti, it is such mass confusion at the moment....scary really. Stay well my friend.......:-) Hugs
Quieten, you are such a sweetie. I know how heavy your heart is right now yet you still see the positive in life.....am praying so hard for George, I do hope his situation improves soon........:-) Hugs
Hi Paul, I too am a bit worried about all the confusion right now in Haiti. When people see their family and friends die, are hungry and without water or shelter...well desperate people do desperate things. We need a lot of prayer for these people and all those who are there helping them. Take care.........:-) Hugs
While I tread softly and help from beyond the spotlight, I remain a stoic pessimist. That way, no one knows the mushy side of me because it's surrounded with briars. One of my favorite sayings is "If people knew my heart instead of my mind, they'd truly know me.......and I don't want that" lol (I made that up many years ago) and it fits.
Oh Dana, I do hope it has warmed up in Florida and I think you have a wonderful heart....:-) Hugs
Bernie,
Your post made me cry. I just want to go over to Haiti and hug them, too. Prayers are important, as are donations but my heart is grieving at the amount of suffering there. I went over my mom's house to pray with her today because prayer is more powerful where two or more are gathered. I know the Lord has our brothers and sisters in Haiti tucked in His heart but I still wish I could do more.
Bernie, I thank God for your beautiful heart. I think you are wonderful:)
Mary now you have made me get all teary eyed with your kind words. I do wish we lived closer together so we could share a coffee, I do think we could have a interesting conversation and help each other with what is happening and what is too come......:-) Hugs
Bernie, beautiful post...I left an award for you on my blog today. please stop by . take care.
Yes! You can be proud of being a positive person and sharing it with the world!
I wish I could go to Haiti, too...I seriously thought of doing so, but now with my fractured foot, I would be a liability rather than a resource to them there....
I hate to see the suffering on the news, but they must keep showing it so the world acts by going there to rescue them.
The rest of us can send small donations and always, always prayers.
Love you for your golden heart.
Cinner, thank you, will be over as soon as I can......:-) Hugs
Joan, oh I do hope your foot is healing well and you are not in much pain.....luv you....:-) Hugs
Bernie, I'm with Queenmother mamaw on that one...... I like Pollyanna and I'm proud to wear rose-coloured glasses.
Someone once said that roses are as real as pigpens. I prefer to focus on the roses.
Hope you get all you need to do done with ease and a joy-full heart.
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