Thanks, Waimarino

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 473, 16 February 1993, Page 4

Thanks, Waimarino

9 Last weeK l aroppea my wallet outside the Raetihi Hardware Shop.

Someone must be looking after me. Mrs Odey whom I once met in Horopito where she lavished frozen strawberries on me, picked it up and has since restored it to me. I take this as a farewell blessing from the Waimarino, as I prepare to move on to chaplaincy work at Palmerston North hospital (and another test too about undue concem for money and possessions). Thank you, Mrs Odey and I hope you received my envelope. On another point, I am conscious of the constantly overcast weather here and that I will be leaving. We know that prolonged lack of sunlight can cause depres-

sion and mood disorder. We need to keep aware of this here so as to be in better support of one another in finding other forms of sunshine such as good interests, good exercise and leisure and the development of our creative talents. Had I stayed this year, I'd hoped to start a group called GROW, an effective mutual support group and programme (not religious), very uplifting for the human spirit. Perhaps some caring person reading this will take up this idea and ring GROW in Wanganui for guidance in having a GROW group here (ph: Bev, 06-345-3620). Meantime thanks again everyone, for two more worth-whild, challenging years with you. Fr Bernie Vella. Nostalgic affection # I was glad to receive (the Raetihi Centennial celebrations) the programme of events arranged for 23, 24 and 25 January and I am only sorry that it came a little late for me to be able to attend. I look back with nostalgic affection upon the town of my birth, where I spent a carefree childhood and which was very much 'home' to me in my formative years. The remaining members of my immediate family and I recall with some pride the service rendered to the community by our parents. My father was in general practice in the area from 1912 until 1946 and gave of himself pretty unstintingly. We remember with even greater pride the efforts of our mother in community service, in her capacity as mayoress particularly during the second World War. I am sorry I could not be there. I know that I am joined by my brother Pat, and my sister Sheila in hoping that everyone who was lucky enough to

be present had a wonderful time.

Barney

Feltham.