MY TURN

Greenfield Recorder, April 5, 2023

By SUSAN R. CARLSON

Who finds pleasure in easing others’ pain? I’m inspired to write because I am grateful for the Recorder’s recent articles of people responding with kindness and caring when others are in difficulty or great agony.

The front page of the March 28 Recorder has two inspiring stories. The first, “Rhode Island family recovering after Route 2 crash,” was about the help received from emergency crews, hospital staff, and the community of “overwhelming outpouring of love and support” (said the grateful father), with contributed photos of the smiling family of four.

The second story, “Family, friends to celebrate man killed in accident,” with a submitted photo of Garrett Giustina warmly smiling, and comments from his mother and a few friends — “his character and kindness,” “very big on loving,”, “the kindest soul to ever walk this Earth.” Both reports include information about a fundraiser.

I’ve also appreciated many articles about farmers and gardeners, their personal lives, and the joys and challenges they have in working with the earth, plants and community. There are many columns, articles, letters and “My Turns” that are inspiring and enjoyable.

I admit I have never appreciated the columns by Jon Huer — and often do not read one to the end — but his recent “Our pleasure from the pain of others,” [Recorder, March 25] challenges me to respond. I don’t find pleasure from the pain of others. I have compassion and empathy when others struggle when abused or in agony, and I’m very happy when I can be of help.

I struggle against this country’s culture of power-over (mostly white male supremacy) causing others to suffer … but it’s mostly the “powerful” few who take advantage of the “lesser,” so the inequality leaves a lot of people suffering.We need to practice spiritual ways of respect for all beings (humans, plants, animals, bugs, fish, etc.), with humility, compassion, generosity and gratitude. Each being has gifts from the Creator, to share with others, and to walk in balance with the Earth and all beings. When we see another in need, and act with kindness, they are grateful and we feel deep joy.

I’m always grateful for the many acts of kindness in our community as well as many more reported in the Recorder and other news media. It would be inspiring for all of us to see more letters and “My Turns” of people’s experiences of kindness. Let us flood the Recorder with our stories! I’ll be watching for your story.

Suzanne R. Carlson is a peace activist who lives in Greenfield, and Traprock board member.