Being the light

People enjoy the Village Green in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

When light shines through the darkness, it makes a difference, one beam at a time. 

That holds true even in the toughest of times, and it has certainly been true today as people have stepped up to help their neighbors through the pandemic throughout the country. 

Barney Corrigan did that in Westville, New Jersey, even after he lost his job as a catering chef, CNN reported Saturday. In April, Corrigan built a small cabinet outside near his home for people in need to come and pick up food. The new service grew in popularity, but so many people pitched in to give donations that he moved the operation to his garage. There, he established Barney's Place Food Pantry, CNN states, and recently received his nonprofit status. Given the great demand for the food he offers, Corrigan is thinking about starting a warehouse. New people continue to contact him every day to arrange donations.

"It's a good problem to have. People really want to help each other right now," Corrigan told CNN.  

In Vermont and throughout the country, stories about good deeds have formed a recurring theme in recent months: There is a lot of good in the world. As Corrigan states on his website, "You will be surprised how quickly love and compassion can change your life." For certain, many have experienced that feeling. It's the natural result of doing good for others, and most importantly, our love and compassion empower us to help and can inspire others to do so. It's always encouraging to read about people who are helping others. They show all of us there is still hope. 

— Gareth Henderson