Keeping your distance

A few weeks ago, I started freelancing for a local publication. A friend of mine put me in touch with an editor, and it has ended up being a great match. They cover interesting events in the community, and I love going out to these experiences, meeting new people, hearing everyones' stories.

The first event I was handed was a charity luncheon by the M&N Augustine Foundation, who served nearly 6,000 people on Easter weekend.

As interesting as the foundation's story is, Merlin's (the founder's) nature was just as fascinating.

During our twenty minute interview, he stopped many people to check up on them. For every one, he remembered the thing that mattered the most to them: an anniversary of their father's death, the number of years a certain cook had volunteered his time to the Easter Feed, the number of nieces and nephews someone had, how long one attended the Methodist church (where we were), the state of their new business, and thanked them all for helping others, knowing exactly what sacrifices each were making.

He didn't just donate a certain amount of money, step back and let everyone else handle it while watching from a distance in a tailored suit.

He made time for everyone, sat down at each table while wearing blue jeans and a t-shirt, caring for and listening to everyone and wishing he could do more.
















Generally, Merlin is cautious of giving interviews, but since he granted me a brief one, he asked that I do something in return: sit down with a plate of food like everyone else. He didn't want his foundation to be dwindled to a set of numbers, amount of money, number of people. Instead, he wanted me to experience the kindness and generosity that was central to the event's purpose.

Families chatted, friends caught up warmly, new friends were made, people packed boxes of food for home delivery...

There seemed to be no barriers. Everyone welcome, no one alone on this holiday.

There's a lot of pressure for journalists to be detached from a story, but in some cases, I think that's rather silly.

If you're interested in helping people have a safe home, something to eat, and the chance to earn an education and job opportunity, the M & N Augustine Foundation is a great place to support.