Editor:
I just wanted to give some positive feedback to an opinion column written for the new year (OK?so I didn’t keep my resolution to respond to issues in a timely manner). James Seaman wrote an entertaining conversation in his Jan. 3 opinion column, “Looking Ahead in 2002 With a Lively Dialogue,” with a very kind message?look for opportunities to make the world a better place. I have had first-hand experience with James making my world a better place.
A few years ago, I had foot surgery and was on crutches for eight weeks. I have no extended family in the area, and my child was too young to help with some tasks. I put in a written request through the Newman Center newsletter that I needed volunteers to help with household chores I could not maneuver on crutches. I quickly heard from a young college student named James.
With modest commitment, he drove by my house weekly, on his way home from classes. In the heat of the August and September afternoons, he used my low-tech “push” mower to cut my lawn for those months. He did not know me from Adam, and yet took the time to help a stranger out, with no thought of benefit to himself.
James had the time, I had the need, and to him it was just a matter of simple good neighborliness. To me it was a gesture of generosity, not just the work he did, but the kindness and caring. When I read James’ new year’s message, it seems so fitting?not only does he write about making the world a better place, he’s been practicing it for most of his life. I appreciate the reminder that we can all make the world a better place, just one person at a time, one act at a time.
Jeanette M. Ricci, Salt Lake City, UT