People helping people

As the Christmas season approaches we are reminded that there are those of us out there that may need a little help this year. That is what we are suppose to do, help our fellow man but not just at this time of year. We are to help all year long if that is what it takes.

A recent rummage sale helped a local woman, Sheri Skrzyniarz, and the coming together of the community made it possible.

The Chris Skrzyniarz family met with misfortune in August when Chris and Sheri were involved in an accident with their motorcycle. Chris did not survive. Sheri was seriously injured and faces months and possibly years of rehabilitation. It was a life-altering event for their children.

The family was well known by many in Crystal Falls. But it was a group of virtually unknown Stager Lake residents that spearheaded the sale. After signs were posted, people began to call and provide items for the sale. It took only a few days for buildings to fill up and donations to pile in. Tents were brought in to handle the overflow of items.

Two residents of Iron Mountain/Kingsford offered to hold a bake sale on site and provide hot dogs, chips, and beverages. Many volunteered their time and efforts to make this rummage sale a success. Buyers and lookers from all over the U.P. came to see what was for sale.

Numerous businesses and agencies contributed and should be acknowledged for their help with this huge project. These include: Jubilee Foods, Super One, Westwood Quick Stop, Florence Subway, Bev’s Supper Club, Florence Auto Parts, Riverside, Prime Assemblies, US Rental, and The Daily News. WJKB provided coverage throughout their telephone time program and WLUC-Channel 6 ran features in their newscast. The Iron County and Florence Sheriff Departments along with the Michigan State Police did additional patrolling prior to the sale.

Nothing defines the character of a small community better than when disaster strikes one of its own. It is here when communities, friends, neighbors, strangers and families come together. People count and matter to one another and that is why this particular rummage sale was a huge success. When situations like this happen, we all feel helpless and don’t know quite what to say or what to do. By banning together and helping a local friend, we can “do something”. This is the advantage of living in a small community of caring and loving people.

As Sheri Skrzyniarz continues to heal, we can be reminded that she will need our help. Many others will need our help out there at this special time of year. I know what you are thinking. Christmas is just around the corner and what can I do? But isn’t Jesus the reason for the season. Remember to think about that kettle drive at the mall, the family you adopted at work, the neighbor who has no one to care for them this Christmas, the small child that may not get a toy this year, the family that the dad is unemployed, the lady that has breast cancer and just can’t shop for her family and the man that has lost his wife and is alone.

Do your small part. Even that will amount to a huge part. Just like the rummage sale for the lady in Crystal Falls that will reap a lot of benefits. I can bet you that when she is well and able, she’ll be there helping the next person that needs help. Give even if you can’t give money, give of your time. Those things do count, trust me I know they do.

Help people and you won’t be sorry. It will make someone else smile and maybe even cry. But those tears of joy will be worth it.

God Bless.