To the Readers' Forum:
Recently the picture of Lawrence Deprimo, a NYC policeman, went viral. A bystander happened to snap a picture of Mr. Deprimo coming to the aid of a barefoot homeless man by outfitting him with new socks and boots. This story has been sent around the world, and no doubt warmed the hearts of all who have read it.
However, I would like to remind people that they do not necessarily have to watch the national news to see random acts of kindness. Last week while shopping at Wal-Mart, a young man rushed to help an elderly woman, who was struggling with her packages, carry them to her car. He was not asked, he simply saw someone in need and rose to the occasion.
Two weeks ago a group of students at the school I work at came together to collect articles for the hurricane victims of Long Island. And I am being sincere when I tell you that a day seldom goes by without seeing or hearing of daily random acts of kindness being carried out in the hallways and classrooms.
Are there bullying problems, and inappropriate behaviors? Of course, but we are doing our best to remedy this. My father once told me that people generally see that they want to see, and I am hopeful that next time you are out in the community, you look around, and keep the words of Anne Frank in mind: "I keep my ideals, because in spite of everything, I still believe people are really good at heart."
Happy Holidays,
Debra K Tordoff
Gerry