People are constantly stopping by the little library that sits at the end of our driveway. I've done everything I can think of to make the tiny building look warm and inviting. Numerous times each week people stop by and take a book or two, sometimes they leave one in return, occasionally a box of books will appear, and once in a while a kind soul leaves a note of appreciation. We live in a town that caters to those on vacation, coming to enjoy Lake Huron. Our road is a commonly traveled route between the two main roads to get to the very top of Michigan's Thumb. Lots of tourists make use of the colorings books, colored pencils, or bubbles we stock.

I take my responsibility seriously to keep my little library in good order. Wouldn't it be interesting to know how many people stop by in a year's time? I have no idea, but I know I'm having to restock a significant amount of books each week during the summer. Therefore, I am confident that it's presence makes a difference.

That's something we all want, isn't it? One of our basic needs by virtue of being human beings, is to make a difference, to matter, to know that we have touched a life, made someone happy, delighted a child. We don't have to do big grand gestures to be valuable, but we do have to DO SOMETHING.

I don't believe we have just one purpose, but many that change, evolve and grow in different ways as we change, evolve and grow.

Don't ever stop look for your purposes. Don't ever stop believe that you are important enough to do meaningful work.

And . . . don't stop reading and coloring and blowing bubbles along the way.

Free Little Library

We had our grand opening of the "Marilyn Y. Knight Memorial Free Little Library" midsummer.  It has been such a rewarding experience to see our small establishment used so much that we've had to restock several times.  The tourist traffic of those enjoying fun in  the sun at the top of Michigan's Thumb, seem to take our road as a convenient thoroughfare.  We've had notes, painted rocks, lots of donated books and good wishes from members of the surrounding community.  I just love the responsibility of having this nook at the end of my driveway.

My mom, loved to do little things and sometimes grand things for people -- some she knew, some she'd never seen before and would never see again.  If she took her car in for any sort of service -- she took donuts and cider.  If she got the hankering, she'd buy dinner for a stranger without them knowing she had paid the bill.  It is so much fun doing things for others. 

The house is far enough off the road, that I never see who has stopped at the library.  I don't know who has been thankful for what we've offered them.  The children's books go very fast, so I am especially happy to know that children are getting their little hands on the written word.

I established the library in Mom's memory because I thought she'd delight in the idea that people were having wonderful adventures with books and enriching life, one page at a time.  Mom and I shared a love of books, and stories.  Of course, she's the one who started me on that journey.  It's one little magical pocket of happiness.