The Value of Community
February 11th 2009 01:50
The community of Marysville devastated by fire. Photo Mark Smith.
To see rows of streets with only the chimneys and fireplaces left standing, like rows of grisly headstones, in memory of the home that once stood there, knowing they represent the destruction of numerous little communities in the Victorian mountains. It has helped me understand the value of community.
Even moreso when you see the tide, dare I say tsunami, of community spirit, not only from Australia, but from overseas, that has since donated nearly $40 million at the time of writing.
It all makes me appreciate our own community and the role our little shop plays in that life. We are often asked to contribute to community groups through sponsorships, donations and coupons. When we know we are supporting schools, churches, the neighbourhood centre and many other community groups, we know we are part of that community web.
Recently we lost two members of our community in an horrific car accident. One was a father of a young family and the other a popular local councillor, husband, father and grandfather. Our town wept. But we rallied and supported the families concerned as best we could.
Both Sir and I love the mornings when people come in for their first coffee of the day and a catch up of the local happenings as well as what's happening outside our town borders.
I can only hope and pray that the devastated communities in Victoria will somehow find their feet and the strength to rebuild their own community web again.
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