The 5 Dollar Project Remembers

Friday September 16th, 2011 our dear friend Corina lost her beautiful mother Marlene to cancer.

The next day her closest friends rallied around her to talk, cry, laugh and remember her Mom. Corina shared stories and feelings, as we shared hugs and support. Sitting around our pastries and coffee, I realized that kindness came in many shapes and forms.

Today we gathered to celebrate the life of Marlene Hill. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend. The church was packed, requiring a live camera feed to the packed basement room as well. As I watched people hug, tell stories and lean on each other I saw kindness in so many forms.

I saw kindness in words, kindness in gentle looks, kindness in flowers and sandwiches. I listened to people talk about the life of a woman whose life revolved around kindness, love and an infectious smile. People volunteered their time and talents out of kindness. We were all connected in grief and the desire to support the family through their most difficult moment.

Kindness.

So many people loved Marlene because of her kindness.

I was honoured to be in the company of people who knew her so well, spreading their kindness like a blanket over the hurting hearts of Marlenes loved ones.

Kindness is not just a one time affair. Living a life of kindness over and above the random acts is important. Open doors, offer help, let someone in in traffic, give up a seat on the bus, smile.

Today the 5 Dollar Project takes a moment to remember the remarkable life of Marlene Hill.

Marlene Hill
January 24, 1950 - September 16, 2011