By Linda Elissalde
“We can do no great things-only small things with great love.” Mother Theresa
I visited Crystal Beach Post Office to buy a special envelope. Everyone waiting in line was friendly while keeping their distance. Diana (Dee) Wilkins was working diligently to place something in a package. She asked Stefan Puffer, our fine gentleman behind the desk, what would be the cost. He replied that it would be $7.50.

I asked her what she was mailing. (Not that it was any of my business. Just making conversation.) Dee explained proudly. Her granddaughter, 8 year old Lily Autrey, wanted to cut off her braid and send it to LOCKS OF LOVE. This organization supplies hair to make wigs for children in need. Many have loss hair due to cancer treatments. So the braid was dutifully cut to be sent to help some small person. Pictured Lily looked just as lovely with shorter hair.

I was so touched by this act of kindness that I asked Dee if I could cover the cost of mailing. However, Chris Gatlin was already at the counter. He turned around with a big smile and said, “The cost is covered.” I shook my head. The very nice man who was socially distanced behind remarked to me, “ Why don’t you send some of your hair?” While keeping my social distance, I turned, gave him a look and replied. “I am not THAT good, and neither is my hair.” He took no offense. (I told you that he was very nice.)

Dee mailed the envelope. It turns out that Stefan is an artist. He told Dee that he would send some photos of his paintings. Lily was to pick the one she liked, and he would give the art to her.

I was addressing my package when another patron entered. I know her, and hope she forgives my mature brain burp, as her name will not come to me. (I prefer the term mature over elderly.) She is quite pretty and charming. Her mission was to purchase one stamp to place on a birthday card envelope. The price was 50 cents. Stephan mentioned that someone had left 50 cents, so he would use that for her stamp.

As I handed over my package to Stephan, I remarked at how many acts of kindness had happened while I was there. He sprayed my hands with sanitizer, gifted me with a postcard of our lighthouse, and assured me it happened often.

What a pleasure to witness those small acts of kindness “done with great love”.

[April-6-2020]