A classic Newfoundland find

We had just attended a very memorable and moving marriage ceremony in Harbourside Park at the wharf in St. John’s and were about to travel to the location of the party.

Walking along Water Street, we met a parking enforcement officer who told us of two spots to find taxis and happily gave us directions. Walking up to Duckworth, we were looking for the taxis and heard a voice saying, “You are looking quite concerned. Can I help you?” Explaining that we were trying to find a taxi to go to a wedding reception, this very kind lady told us where to look and asked where we were headed. When she found out, she replied that it was on her way and she could give us a lift. We protested, not wanting to put her any more out of her way, but she insisted that as long as we were not axe murderers — insisting she herself was not — she could easily drive us to our destination. On our way we had great discussions; so much so that my wife left her purse in the car! Realizing this, I phoned my wife’s phone to contact this fine example of Newfoundland’s “friendly neighbour policy.”

Unfortunately, my wife had turned the ringer down for the ceremony and it was not until the next day that we received a call back. Knowing from the telephone number that it was from St. John’s, I answered “Kim, thank you for calling.” In true Newfoundland spirit, she quickly made arrangements to come to where we were on Water Street to deliver the purse we had forgotten. Once again, as in the earlier encounter, there was nothing I could say to stop her more than generous offer.

Will we be back? Having travelled across the country I can honestly say there is no friendlier place than Newfoundland and of course we will be back; with people like Kim to meet, you might as well spend time with the best than tread water with the rest!

Ray and Janet White Virgil, Ont.

“Explaining that we were trying to find a taxi to go to a wedding reception, this very kind lady told us where to look and asked where we were headed.”