There's a reason I chose a small Southern town for the Boomer and Halley stories. Shady Pines may be a place of make-believe, but it helps us believe there is a setting where we can slow down and pay attention to our neighbors. Kindness and caring takes time. And time, these days, is in short supply. 

The good folks of Shady Pines tackle many of the modern-day dilemmas that we do: Dealing with the multiple issues inherent in blended families, corrupt politicians, children who need to be re-directed when they are bored, etc.   But they confront these problems - and one another - with compassion, not confrontation. This used to be the trademark of living in American cities and towns.

Each of us longs for that kind of community. We search for it in our spititual endeavors, employment settings, country clubs, and community centers.  We talk about it on the radio and on-line. We long for a connection to others that is meaningful. Mostly, all we hear is noise. Most people feel isolated.

That's why I urge you to be mindful of your ability to connect. Pay attention to the person waiting on you in the store, your neighbor, your friend, your child. Random acts of kindness and caring really aren't all that random. They just take time. What have you done for someone else today?