Thanks to all unsung heroes

We should all pay tribute to the unsung heroes who may have had trees falling into their own homes, no power or heat, and who had to serve people since this storm hit.

I had nurses who had to cut trees out of the way so they could see people, staff who stayed with patients in cold houses so as to not leave them alone, and others who had no warm home to go to come in to our headquarters and call over 500 patients to check on their safety.

Hospice patients who lived alone or didn’t have heat were admitted to Keystone House in Wyndmoor. We especially want to commend the PECO workers, ambulance drivers, firemen and police who all went out in the cold, icy and dangerous conditions just to serve others.

Gail Inderwies

Executive Director

KeystoneCare and Keystone Hospice

Wyndmoor

Merci for Sochi, Monsieur Putin

I am so amazed that I can just push a button and be at the Sochi Olympic Games. Just like that! Isn't it amazing? Let's not take it for granted!

I was never a sports fan in a real sense of the world. Actually, I do not watch much TV, but because of so much fuss about these games I became more outspoken about them.

I do not go to sporting events much, but I respect and support what is good for people, for my friends, for a link with the world, for helping, for understanding and respect and peace.

So here I am watching the inauguration and the beginning of the games. It is cold outside for me, and here in my cozy corner it is divine with a glass of Loire Valley wine. I can't help think that even Monsieur Putin should be thanked for a good show.

You must start somewhere to show you are really honest about trying, so merci, Monsieur Putin! Please, all of us around the world, let's make it a successful and joyous event for everybody!

Chef Michele Haines

Spring Mill Cafe

Conshohocken

To the deer rescue

A most heartwarming story got my attention recently. It is especially poignant given the unsavory climate that prevails here concerning deer.

The story unfolded on Saturday, Feb. 1, as lifelong Mt. Airy resident Richard McIlhenny was driving on Cresheim Valley Road toward Allens Lane. As he approached the intersection with Cresheim Road, he could see that something was amiss just ahead. Traffic was going around something in the road – a car part, pot hole, tree limb or other obstacle. On what now has become Emlen Street, it soon became apparent that a deer had been struck and was motionless on the road.

According to Richard, the female deer was in a sitting position, though stunned. He immediately rendered assistance, approaching her from behind. She turned and looked at him with sad eyes. He reached underneath her rear legs and gently lifted her to a standing position. He put his hands on either side of her body and began to guide her to the grassy area on the right side of the road.

She, on the other hand, wanted to go to the other side and so he continued to support her as she made her way. He was able to let go after she gained some stability in walking. Safely off the road now, she turned to look at him with relief and appreciation. If he hadn’t been there that night, the outcome could have been much worse. He returned a number of times, but was unable to find her. It is hoped that she recovered to allow for the fulfillment of her life’s journey as nature intended.

Richard takes to heart the distress of any animal in need. His compassionate ethic, moral obligation and the demands of basic decency kicked in when the situation warranted it that night on Emlen Street as so many times before. He walks the talk. It’s been said that true human goodness as exemplified here is purest only when its recipients have no power.

Richard follows in the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and ecology. Saint Francis referred to animals as ‘’brothers and sisters,’’ laying down a foundation of respect for animals. And with respect comes the responsibility to watch over animals with care and compassion. Saint Francis reminded us that we have a mission to be of service to them whenever they require it.

Hopefully, as we renegotiate our relationships with animals, there should follow a greater appreciation of them, an awareness of how much they enrich our lives and in due time, peaceful co-existance.

All animals under our power should have their natures respected and their dignity as living creatures recognized. Each has a place to fill and a purpose to live out. Doing right by animals builds a better world for all.

Richard, your meritorious service that night was beyond reproach, and on my birthday to boot. Thanks for the memory.

Bridget Irons

Chestnut Hill