Don’t let the chaos cloud selfless acts
Eight hours a day, seven days a week, for the last eight years, Eddie Kirkwood has volunteered to pick up litter.
The cerebral palsy sufferer is confined to a wheelchair but it doesn’t stop him clearing up the streets around Glasgow.
When word of this selfless act reached Rangers, Eddie’s favourite player Kenny Miller agreed to pay him a personal visit.
It’s a heart- warming tale. Eddie’s message is all about playing his part and being social responsible.
He said: “I take pride in my city. I want to do my bit so everyone can enjoy clean paths and streets.”
Simple as that. No personal gain other than a sense of satisfaction. So good for Rangers for recognising a worthy cause – and here’s another example.
While the media gathered en masse after Derek McInnes had rejected the chance to become new Rangers manager, the Ibrox players were at Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children dealing with the things that really matter.
Jason Holt and his team-mates were doing ward visits on the back of a £10,000 cheque from Rangers Charity Foundation to the charity’s Schiehallion Appeal, which helps Scotland’s kids beat cancer.
It’s a move that has been mirrored by Old Firm rivals Celtic who also paid a visit last week to put a smile on young faces.
As the Ibrox squad chatted with kids, parents and staff, signed autographs and handed out teddy bears, Holt sidestepped questions on the managerial situation.
But asked about the kids and seeing real-life heartache at close quarters, he said: “It gives you a sense of perspective.
“We have been coming here for a few years and it really hits home.”
Some footballers have a natural desire to embrace their social responsibility.
Former Ibrox striker Steven Naismith has always appreciated the good hand in life he has been dealt.
After overcoming dyslexia he’s an ambassador for Dyslexia Scotland and sponsors Christmas dinner for Glasgow’s homeless people through the Loaves and Fishes foundation.
The chaos at Rangers in recent times shouldn’t overshadow an institution of huge importance. The unseen good done by the Old Firm and other clubs isn’t only restricted to the festive period. It’s a reason for sport to be commended.