In this series, The Citizen profiles locals who strive to make our little corner of Manitoba a better place. Each month, we feature a person, family, or organization that helps brighten the world in some way. If you have someone in mind for a future month, please nominate them: jlavin@nivervillecitizen.com
This month’s Super Citizen is you. You know who you are—or honestly, maybe you don’t. You’re not the one who normally gets the attention, but your small acts make the world bearable. To the unsung heroes.
To the customer service representative who smiles and really tries to help.
To the cashier who engages in meaningful chats as they scan groceries.
To the delivery person who bent down to pet your dog.
To the dad who lies down on the floor next to his child’s bed during a big thunderstorm.
To the little boy who just gave his precious five-dollar bill to a man on the street who was holding up a sign that said “Please help.”
To the mom who didn’t eat dinner last night because there was only enough for her kids. And to the mom who goes to bed so angry that she has to live this way.
To the neighbour with a chronic illness who struggles with pain and anxiety every day but still gives her all to everyone she meets.
To the friend who gets up the courage to leave her abusive spouse. And to the one who just couldn’t do it.
To the lady at Walmart who gives a tired, crying mom a tissue and a hug.
To the child who sees someone playing alone and invites them into their group.
To the teacher who sees the potential in the “difficult” child.
To the niece who works in palliative care and gives each dying patient the same loving care at the end.
To the daughter who wants only to be a mother but worries she never will be.
To the driver who smiles and waves to let someone into their lane.
To the friend who comes over at midnight in taped-up glasses and torn sweatpants because she got a text that just said, “I’m losing it.”
To the educational assistant who makes so much less money than she deserves but still gives every student her very best.
To the young man who pays for an old man’s groceries when he couldn’t find his wallet.
To the coworker who finds out you’re having a tough day and immediately says, “I’ll bring you food.”
To the mourner who was just behind me as I drove into the cemetery to visit my dad but chose to wait outside the gates while I had my time with him.
To every woman who ever stood up beside another woman and said, “I believe you.”
To the sister who listens every day.
To everyone who ever apologized and meant it.
The world can be a brutal place, a cold and unforgiving home—but you? You make it better. I promise.
