Country Life Interests

Waikato Times, Volume 119, Issue 19902, 3 June 1936, Page 3

Country Life Interests

HELPING OTHERS. THE JOY A NEIGHBOUR CAN BRING. What a beautiful experience it is to be able lo look back and feel that one has had the will and the opportunity to help others. I do not mean this only for people who have been blessed with means, but just to have been able to do some act that has helped a neighbour In her hour of trouble; to give a helping hand to a boy or girl that will result in some good to them. Have you ever folded your hands on your lap and felt, even if you have not said: “I don’t know how to go on?” Then some little kindness has been shown, and the burden generally seems more bearable. Big acts do not necessarily make for the smoothing paths of life, but rather the little neighbourly touches that bush women as well as town women know so well how to give. One such act remains in my memory, and countless ones could probably be found in your own. Once while accompanying a sick member of the family through a raging rain storm. I was obliged to leave the children in the home. On my return late in the afternoon, 1 found the house in order, the children cared for, a meal in readiness—all by a kindly neighbour who Just felt she would like to help—a sweet service that gives a glow after many years. Somebody smiled and spoke to me, On a sorrowful, tear-fllled day. Somebody showed me the rift in the cloud. Lifted my heart when my head was bowed, Chased the trouble away. Somebody gave me a word of cheer, When nothing seemed worth while; Somebody planted new faith in me. Showed me all I was meant to be, Helped me over the stile % . All through life the ”somebo*dies” ask For no reward or praise, But, oh. what a beautiful world it would be, If the lesson came home to you and me, And we, too. helped to raise The weak, the lonely, the faint, the sad, And cheered and encouraged and mado them glad Through their UiUlcult days. —C.M.

A page devoted to the interests of the Country Women of the Waikato, and in particular to advancing and recording the activities of those two great national organisations, the Women's Institutes and the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union.