Little Ripples Project Month 2

1.After sharing information about the organisation Letters Of Hope last month I signed up as a volunteer. Here’s a refresher:

“Letters of Hope was founded in 2018, and aims to spread kindness, raise awareness and break the stigma around mental health through sending handwritten letters to those who are going through a tough time. Through sending these letters, Letters of Hope shares helpful coping strategies, words of empowerment and connects those who are struggling with the support that could turn things around.” Letters by volunteers are forwarded by the organisation to recipients in which they also include a card including information about maintaining mental health. No names or personal information is exchanged.

I laboured over my first attempt for weeks. What the hell do you write that sounds sincere and that provides some connection even though you are total strangers?

Music. Music has been my salve throughout the years. There are some great tunes out there with lyrics that provide comfort and encouragement.

SMILE , sung by *Harrick Connick Jnr, by Charlie Chaplin

Light up your face with gladness,

Hide every trace of sadness.

Although a tear may be ever so near,

That’s the time you must keep on trying,

Smile, what’s the use of crying?

You’ll find that life is still worthwhile,

If you just smile.

That’s the time you must keep on trying,

Smile, what’s the use of crying?

You’ll find that life is still worthwhile

If you just smile

I haven’t understood a bar of music in my life, but I have felt it.” – Igor Stravinsky

2.Weeks before Christmas a local organisation, STAR Community, organised a Secret Santa to provide gifts for the elderly. Originally created to provide a cheaper motor transport option for the aged and infirm, and powered by the generosity of volunteers, STAR arranged for collection boxes to be placed in libraries across the district and requested donations of grocery items and small gift lines for our elderly who are socially isolated.

I’ve just read that over 7000 items were donated during a three week period which were used to make up 800 gift baskets that were presented to older members of our community. Wonderful effort and you don’t feel an extra purchase or two when it ends up in the shopping trolley. 

3.A girlfriend is a keen supporter of Life’s Little Treasures Foundation (LLTF). This charity is dedicated to providing practical support, information and assistance to families of babies born prematurely or sick and was founded by parents who had lived this experience.

My friend is one of those girls who can’t sit in front of the television without doing something with her hands. Knitting, sewing, crafting – all those tasks which are foreign to me.

“These are pocket hearts and are lovingly made by our Handmade Heroes community to be included for our Precious Prem Pack. Pocket size, they’re made to be carried with you, or in your bag or pocket as a reminder that you’re not alone.

The organisation believes “that kindness can change the world. It is a place to learn about and practice self-compassion and random acts of kindness. If you believe in the power of love, you’re very welcome here”.

They make far more than pocket hearts too. Go here:

Pocket Hearts Sewing Pattern

*Note:

Harry Connick Jnr still makes an old girl swoon..