Those not-so-little acts of kindness

They can make such a big difference in our everyday lives. Little acts of kindness take little effort and have big results. 

Every day can be a new day if we lend a little kindness. In today’s troubled world, anxiety and uncertainty are ever increasing. Individuals need a bright ray of sunshine knowing someone cares. It doesn’t need to cost anything other than a few minutes of time. In the military, our code of honor was to protect and look out for one another (having each other’s six). 

The timely delivery of the COVID vaccine to states last December was initially bobbled by many unprepared and disorganized state leaders. Distribution clearly vastly improved with supplies to local pharmacies, clinics, retail outlets and various venues this year. 

At first everyone was wondering which injection they should take? Pfizer, Moderna or J&J? Answer? The first one available. They’re all highly effective preventing hospitalization and death (though J&J had its troubles with its vaccine, as reported in the news), and although the president’s goal of immunizing 70% of America by July 1 might not succeed, New York State hit that mark on Tuesday, June 15. 

The sooner we, the citizen army of this nation, get the juice in our arms, the sooner we defeat this invader and protect one another. Those who are not vaccinated should keep their masks on in public. 

Caring individuals, meanwhile, keep assisting others with registering for vaccines and offering rides to injection sites. 

Many caring neighbors are also offering medical visit rides, looking in and conversing with one another to ensure their mutual welfare. Individuals are also preparing, buying or offering meal ingredients to make life easier for others. 

Patriots are flying our American flag, our symbol of freedom, and openly supporting our first responders. Many are running errands or shopping for those having difficulty doing so. 

In these days, when so many politicians and institutions have failed us, it’s encouraging to know that average, reasonable folks in this country mostly care for one another. They create their own aura of optimism; they make their own sunshine. 

Challenging times are not new, and we will overcome the challenges presented to us now.  We need to stick together, help one another whenever possible and look forward to a great summer. 

God bless you, patriotic and caring readers, and your families.  

Millerton resident Larry Conklin is a Vietnam War veteran and a member of both the Millerton American Legion Post 178 and the Couch-Pipa VFW Post 6851 in North Canaan, Conn.