From tragedy rises something amazing

It's been a little while since I posted as there has been rather a lot going on in our lives, some of it positive and some of it negative - the usual ups and downs of family life.  There are also moments when I have thought, as a new blogger "why am I bothering to do this" or "no one will read it anyway" and I imagine all bloggers go through this from time to time. 

Sometimes though, something very special happens which shows the true strength of humanity, the kindness and compassion which underlies all the hustle and bustle of our busy lives.  This week, that something happened!  If I had ever doubted the power of the online community, the effect blogs and social media have on people, I take it all back.  The events of this week have taught me to value those around me every moment, to appreciate everything.

When tragedy struck for a second time for the King family, a fellow blogger and friend, Naomi Ellis at www.sevencherubs.com, decided to try to use her online community to make a difference, she thought she might be able to raise some money to help out, boy was she in for a shock!  In less than a week an outstanding amount of money has been donated, mostly by those who did not know the King family personally but had been touched in some way by the blogs they read, the lives they follow and the compassion they felt for the Kings.

Watching this unfold with such speed has grounded me to realise the good and kindness within those around me.  Maybe that person you just cut off in the traffic, glared at for holding you up or the girl behind the counter who seemed rude, is one of those who gave this week to a family they didn't know.  Perhaps those people have their own personal struggles going on and a smile could make all the difference to their day - just a thought!

Please read more about the events of this week and share with your friends here http://www.sevencherubs.com/2012/01/king-family-donations.html

Everything about this has me counting my own blessings as my heart goes out to this family.  It also leaves me feeling a whole lot better about the world I live in.  Well done Naomi for reminding me that sometimes a tragedy can bring out the best in people.  My thoughts are with the Kings during this terrible time they face.

 xxx