Displays of Kindness Show a Loving Heart

Dancing Elephants Press Prompt week 28 0f 52: Kindness

Over the years I’ve experienced kindness from others in many forms. I would like to honor a special community that welcomed me into their midst. I had moved to Lake Chelan, Washington after a divorce. To start over. In the mountainous territory that I love.

This community sits at the end of a 50-mile-long glacier-fed lake. Vineyards and mountains surround it. A boat trip up the lake feels like you’re entering the fiord-like territory. The water is crystal clear. It boasts 300 days of sunshine per year. For six years I lived in this Paradise. 💖

I worked at the local Safeway grocery store in the bakery section. My manager, Robin, knew I had no family close by. She became my surrogate daughter, inviting me to join her family during the holidays.

After my mountaineering accident, she brought over a fold-up bed. So I could sleep in my living/dining room area. The kitchen and bathroom were on the same floor. That way I didn’t have to go up and down stairs. She arranged for Meals on Wheels to deliver food. She held my position open for my eventual return. She kept in contact during my convalescence. 🥰

The owner of Big Dog Kennels boarded my Husky, Chan Teh, for free. She found a special playmate for her too. The two dogs enjoyed one another’s company. (Chan Teh was a rescue husky and leery of other dogs). She called me to let me know how my baby was doing. 🥰

When I recuperated to bring Chan Teh home again, we went on daily walks down by the riverfront. One morning a pit bull attacked Chan Teh, seizing her by the neck. I kicked and screamed to try to dislodge the beast. A tall visitor came to our rescue. Eventually, the assailant broke free and ran off. I didn’t know his name. 🥰

I’ll never forget the look of terror in my dog’s eyes. I ran with her bleeding, back towards my condo. A black SUV pulled over to the curb. “Get in,” the woman ordered. “Where do you live?” She drove us to my condo. I was grateful for her kindness. 🥰

I managed to find a vet who responded immediately to stitch Chan Teh’s wounds. Animal Control arrived shortly thereafter with the culprit in a cage. He had Chan Teh’s blood still on his muzzle. She said two joggers saw the attack and managed to collar the dog for the sheriff. She said it was the animal’s third offense & could finally be euthanized.

I didn’t know who the people were who helped us that day. How could I thank them? ❤️

I wrote a letter expressing my gratitude to the editor of the local newspaper. There was a stray dog problem in Chelan. The editor wanted to address this. He sent a photographer and placed our story on the front page.

After that strangers stopped us on the street to express dismay over what happened. Chan Teh received many pets while they chatted. The two of us were celebrities. I don’t recommend becoming renowned that way. Chan Teh’s personality changed as a result of the attack. She was even more timid around other dogs. It took a while to socialize with her again.

When I was eligible to receive my full Social Security allowance, I knew we needed a change. We had to leave Lake Chelan to give her a fresh start. That was when I sold everything I owned and bought a used RV. We were free to see the vast territory of the United States of America.

It was one of the best decisions I ever made. Chan Teh thrived at the opportunity to visit new places and meet new people. My soul mate and I went on a year-long adventure I’ll never regret. I’ll always be grateful for the kindness expressed by many citizens of Lake Chelan. You occupy a special place in my heart. 💕💕

Thank you, editor, Annelise Lords for the prompt on kindness.

Special thanks for providing this positive writing space, Dancing Elephants Press editors Dr. Gabriella Korosi, Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles, Dr. Preeti Singh, and Annelise Lords.

Please read these lovely posts by other DEP writers:

GnanVi_Speaks writes about the power of living with love and kindness in the world.

William J Spirdione has written a lovely sonnet to brighten up your day. Enjoy his beautiful daffodil photos.