This story leaves me smiling

Another episode in our “Little Town of Summerland” series

Watching from a distance, it was hard to hear what was happening at the Remembrance Day Ceremony 2024 in our little town of Summerland, for two reasons. As often happens the amplification system could not project sound to the southern-most area of the jam packed Memorial Park. The wind also carried sound in many directions though not towards where we were standing. Coupled with this was our late arrival, something that also happens with the tardy Grays. We pledge to do better next year.

A large crowd of over 1,000 attendees—seniors, veterans, community leaders and members—stood to a cool attention underneath foreboding though thankfully dry skies. As vintage planes circled above and the ceremony proceeded with military precision the question for parents of young folk was how to manage energy, attention, comfort, and patience.

Trying to engage myself I suddenly noticed a little girl; I think around three years old. Dressed in a green winter jacket with hood attached she wandered about, quietly, increasingly interested in the many maple leaves scattered all over the park. I next saw her picking up bright yellow coloured leaves, a collection she would carry around for a bit, and then she would disappear.

I next saw that she was giving her leaves to those of us standing and watching. She eventually walked up to Kathie and me presenting us with these lovely gifts. I held mine up to the light marveling at the design of my leaf, an observation which captured my attention for a good five or so minutes.

As we continued to stand, she continued her ministry, gifting these precious natural specimens to others who were similarly touched and delighted. We held in our hands remnants of the autumn past, tokens of creation about to continue their own journey towards soil, a state where they will join other biota to produce the next season’s nourishment. For me, it was a “cycle of life” moment.

What touched me most was her unassuming kindness, her fondness for gift giving, her simple and quiet generosity. Was this her idea? Possibly. Was it an idea suggested by a resourceful parent or grandparent? “Why don’t you go round and pick up all the leaves” they suggested. “Sure” she replied. Who knows. It was such a lovely gesture.

In a world that looks increasingly dark and unkind, small gestures of kindness and creativity mean a lot. Bravo little one. See you next year at the cenotaph; and yes, we will arrive earlier next year.