Lyn Swindlehurst

THE value of giving.

Easter has been a time spent with my family enjoying some simple pleasures.

Sadly, across the world these are pleasures denied so many, a great deal of sadness, but also a great deal of compassion.

We are not a particularly religious family, but my five-year old grandson, Elijah goes to All Saints C of E, school where they pray before lunch every day.

Elijah asked me if he could say grace before our Easter meal – obviously I agreed.

His prayer focused on the food we have, those who prepare it, and those with whom we share it.

A sentiment that made us all think of those who have none of those things we take for granted.

Over 15,000 people have so far offered their homes to Ukrainian people who have fled their own homes and loved ones, in addition to donations of essential items, money and practical support.

Such atrocities are happening in many other countries across the world, where our generosity and mindfulness is essential.

Having been privileged to attend a recent Holocaust event I was left deeply moved by the words of a local young woman, Tilly Thorley, reflecting on her visit to Auschwitz.

This visit resulted in her commitment to highlight the Holocaust, and the aim to eradicate genocide for ever.

The inequalities in our world are shocking, some hidden in plain sight.

At home families are struggling, children are hungry, older people are cold, people are reliant on food banks.

Looking at my two beautiful grandsons reminds me of my blessings.

In Leek, many organisations and individuals are committed to helping others.

Sadly, they are sometimes, often on social media, accused of ‘virtue signalling’.

A sad reflection that we cannot mention or celebrate a good deed.

One definition of virtue signalling is an attempt to show others you are a good person.

Others use it to imply that trait is insincere.

Some people are determined to see a negative rather than a positive, I say thank you to anyone doing anything positive, shout it from the rooftops, it’s infectious!

Many of us are privileged and many choose to share that in many and varied ways with others, willingly.

It is possible to give and at the same time enhance our own feeling of worth and happiness.

Author Dodinsky said: “Be there for others but never leave yourself behind”.