“So, what did you do over this weekend, David?”
What a Weekend!
As I woke up this morning, I asked myself, “So, what did you do over this weekend, David?” And let me tell you, it was quite an adventure.
Friday night was a “Big Sleep Out” event, aimed at raising funds for much-needed causes like the Emmaus Trust, which helps homeless youth, and Shawmind, which provides support to people with mental health issues.
The evening kicked off with a general get-together, where we were warned about health and safety concerns that we might face during the night. From there, we all went off to build our shelters for the night.
We used cardboard boxes, sleeping bags, puffa jackets, yoga mats, and blankets to create makeshift homes for ourselves. The sense of camaraderie that developed among us was amazing, and we shared jovial banter throughout the night.
But then, it hit me. This was nothing like what real homeless people experience every day. They don't have hot chocolate brought to their beds or an abundance of sturdy cardboard boxes on hand. They don't have yoga mats to keep the cold off their backs. We have no idea what they endure, especially those affected by global crises like Turkey’s recent earthquake, the migrant crises at Calais, and the millions displaced by war, famine, drought, and climate change.
So, the next time you come across someone on the street with their hand out, don’t ignore them. You don’t know what brought them to their desperate position. Stop, say hello, and buy them a takeout coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or a sandwich. Whatever you are comfortable with, lend a helping hand. It doesn’t take much to make a difference.
On a brighter note, Sunday was a day of celebration for Hercules Clay at the Parish Church in Newark. The procession was led by our very own Town Mayor Goff and his entourage of civic dignitaries. During the service, thanks and praise were offered to Hercules Clay for his service to Newark during the siege and as town Mayor. It was a truly wonderful morning.
In the afternoon, my wife Debbie and I set out to distribute my flyers around the ward. It was a good walk, and we got plenty of fresh air while distributing hundreds of flyers. I must say a HUGE thanks to Barbara, Darrell, and David, who are also doing a great job of helping to get our message out there to the voters of Newark.
So, there you have it, folks. My weekend was filled with adventure, celebration, and a bit of hard work. But most importantly, it was a reminder that we should never take our blessings for granted and always lend a helping hand to those in need.
David Moore is your Beacon Cllr at Newark and Sherwood District Council.
