The small things, they still count

A view of the Ottauquechee River from the Elm Street bridge in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

In the early phases of Vermont's pandemic response, the impact of neighbors helping neighbors received a great deal of attention, and that continued in the following months. Today, even the smallest effort to help someone else is a big deal — perhaps more than ever.

The strong sense of community in Vermont forms the backbone of the state's culture, and that strength was a comfort for many people after the pandemic arrived and quickly impacted everyone’s life. That community fortitude sent — and still does send — a reassuring message that we're all pulling in the same direction during a time of need.

The need for that community strength only grew. When spring arrived, we saw many rise up in protest after the killing of George Floyd, and the calls for justice multiplied as younger generations became a prominent voice. The closer the election neared, the deeper the nation's partisan divide seemed to plunge. Economic issues intensified amid coronavirus restrictions. Now, the U.S. grapples with a fraught presidential transition following a Biden-Harris victory. It's the latest cause of tension in a long 2020, a year that (incredibly) concludes in less than two months.

Looking at all those challenges at once, they demand solutions, and they also form a huge mountain to climb. Reasons for doubt may seem obvious. However, that light which appears faint amid the darkness is our most critical resource in making a difference for the better. Acts of kindness can feel "small", but they also inspire others to do likewise, because they make us remember the good inside all of us. We can't help but give that gift once it's been given to us. It's natural, and it can help dissolve division.

That network of good is needed here, and it's needed all over the world. The best part of it, is that anyone can add to this continual cycle of love. Kindness in any form makes a difference and cultivates the hope we need. So, if there's an opportunity to help someone and we come to their aid, we'll not only help that individual, we help all of us by keeping hope alive. That single act proves good is still present, and it naturally propels us toward progress. Each day, we can decide to make that progress continue.

— Gareth Henderson