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Kindness has never been so vital! Share your story with OrilliaMatters

Selfless, unexpected acts of kindness 'remind us that we are one community, working toward the same goal,' says OSMH official
Be Kind - with slogan - Colour Logo - CMYK

It’s been more than 18 months since Orillia — and the rest of the world — was plunged into the great unknown of a global pandemic.

It’s not hyperbole to say that our lives have changed dramatically and the impact will be felt in ways both large and small for many years to come.

In the early days of the pandemic, when the initial shock about this devastating new reality began to fade, many in our community stepped up to help their neighbours, to assist those who needed help and to lend a hand to the vulnerable and to those feeling isolated and anxious.

There were incredible group efforts and heart-felt campaigns that showed the Orillia spirit in all its goodness. Many people, on their own, did unexpected things in unexpected ways for complete strangers — little acts that turned a difficult situation into a heart-warming moment.

But as the pandemic has dragged on, there seems to be a little less of that spirit and a little more frustration, anger and despair creeping in. Some have lamented that we seem to have lost our humanity.

So, when the city’s emergency management committee (EMC) reached out to us to partner with them on a 'Be Kind' campaign, we jumped at the opportunity to help reverse that ugly trend and attempt to turn the spotlight on the selfless acts of kindness and generosity that happen quietly, behind the scenes, each day.

Carmine Stumpo, the president and CEO of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, a key member of the city's Primary Emergency Control Group since Day 1, said the Be Kind initiative is vital. 

“We have seen some divisiveness in how people are responding to the pandemic and the solutions. Kindness reminds us that we are one community, working toward the same end goal,” he explained. 

“I think it’s more important than ever to be kind because people get lost, are feeling alone, as though they are not being heard or supported. Recognizing random acts of kindness is an incredible way to let people know they’re seen, they’re heard ... if we just maintain that level of kindness, it will make all of us feel much better about the situation,” said Stumpo.

The Be Kind campaign starts today and runs until Dec. 19. It’s meant to be a catalyst for spreading and recognizing kindness throughout the community and reminding everyone that we always have the option to be kind during challenging, frustrating circumstances.

"The past 18 months have been extremely difficult, and I understand that people are tired and potentially angry with the ongoing impacts of the pandemic and proof of vaccination requirements,” said Mayor Steve Clarke.

The mayor said being kind is always the better option.

“A simple act of kindness can go a long way to change the trajectory of someone's day,” said Clarke. “Together we can help one another choose patience, tolerance and respect in our daily interactions with one another, whether in person or online.”

Stumpo agrees. He said early on, when members of the community painted rocks with positive messages and left them outside the hospital, it meant a lot to beleaguered front-line staff.

“It really is a message of kindness that can be incredibly motivating and powerful after a really tough sequence of shifts,” Stumpo said, adding staff have gathered the rocks and created a rock garden where staff often visit to find inspiration.

He encourages the community to find ways to lift the spirits of those who may need a lift.

‘When you can surprise someone with kindness, that’s the best demonstration of community spirit,” said Stumpo.

“Having the city and our partners all engage in this for each other, I think, will be a phenomenal opportunity,” he said, noting a “concerted effort is needed to get to the finish line of this pandemic with a smile on our faces.”

To that end, the city will be using its Facebook account to feature daily acts of kindness; there is also a contest focused on spreading messages of kindness for a chance to win a one-month Family Fun Pass to the Orillia Recreation Centre.

The ‘Be Kind’ message will be shared throughout the community, including at local businesses, on Orillia Transit, at city facilities and via community partners. 

On top of that OrilliaMatters will publish a story focusing on the ‘Be Kind’ theme each week - starting Thursday this week, until the week before Christmas.

This is where we need your help. If you know of a good example of an act of kindness or generosity that was meaningful to you or others, let us know.

We want to shine the light on acts of kindness from an individual or a group - big or small. If you have an idea for a story, please email [email protected]

Be Kind.


 

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Dave Dawson

About the Author: Dave Dawson

Dave Dawson is community editor of OrilliaMatters.com
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