Humbled by "tov"

First was the “Melody Makers” one-day singing retreat held at Bethel Church during the last school Pro-D day. Children and youth from Quesnel’s InSong Choir and Prince George’s Tapestry Singers, along with their instructors, gathered for a day of shared learning and music-making. The InSong Choir leaders in Quesnel, after countless hours of preparation, created a day filled with singing, delicious food, and joyful play. It became a space where children learned new vocal techniques, formed new friendships—both locally and across communities—and simply had fun. My socially cautious child, who was initially hesitant to spend her “day off” at a full-day event, didn’t want to leave and immediately asked when the next one would be. She made three new friends and is already hoping for playdates. “My favorite part was eating together at the table,” she said.

Second, I’ve begun training to volunteer two hours a week at my faith community’s office. The lady I am learning from is preparing to move away, and I was deeply moved by the care she put into her work. Every file was clearly and intuitively labeled, and she created detailed instructions so that anyone stepping in could follow with ease. Her quiet dedication speaks volumes, and her absence will certainly be felt in our community.

Finally, at the May 2nd Quesnel Hike for Hospice, I was surrounded by generous and committed volunteers whose contributions meant so much. One hospice training student brought a simple coffee tin for donations—already filled with contributions she had gathered from her own home. Another volunteer supported the event from beginning to end, helping with transportation, setting up tents, and taking everything down afterward. Someone else purchased supplies and offered face painting for children, creating a space where parents could engage and learn about hospice and palliative care. A team from a local bank, along with their children, staffed shifts at the hospice tent. And there were many others, each offering their time and energy in meaningful ways.

Any capacity for goodness within us, and any experience of goodness we encounter, is a gift from beyond ourselves. It is a gift from God and it is always humbling to witness. Doing good is, in itself, the reward. In those moments, we glimpse something sacred—our own divine humanity expressed through action. A life oriented toward the greater good carries a deeper quality, inviting us to discover what it truly means to be human.  There is great fulfillment in finding spaces where our gifts and talents can be manifested and received.  In the words of community building guru Cormac Russell: "A gift is not a gift until it is given and it is not a gift until it is received."  

I am grateful for Quesnel, where faith communities, businesses, groups, and individuals generously offer their gifts—both individually and collectively. In doing so, they embody the divine nature of their Creator and help make Quesnel a good place to live.

How are you expressing the goodness that lives within you?