In my book, there are only two kinds of people in this world: selfless and selfish.
Selfless people are the ones who give freely, without expectations. They are the movers and shakers of this community. They are those who spend countless hours on boards of directors and committees, donating their precious time trying to improve our organizations. They raise funds for the needy, for the purchase of hospital equipment and to make hospice a better place for our elderly. They are those who believe Cornwall is a great place for raising a family and will do everything to get rid of the old stigma attached to the name. They are the ones who give back to a town that has given them so much, namely a place to grow and prosper on a personal, professional or business front.
Maybe it's pretentious of me, but I like to think that Mai-Liis and I are part of this first group.
Over the last year and a half, we have donated over $90,000 worth of work in order to promote small businesses, artists and events local to this city. We love our Cornwall and want to help bring all its positive features to light, for the whole world to see. We believe that our geographical location, water and greenery included, is a asset that will propel us to a very strategic place over the next 15 years. We believe that spreading the word is the best way to accomplish just that. We are both members of Team Cornwall and true ambassadors of this community.
Selfish people, on the other hand, are completely different. They suck the life out of everything. They take things and people, use and abuse them, then throw them to the curb. They thrive on drama. And if there is no drama around, they'll create drama. These self-loathing individuals are not happy unless someone around them is crying. These are also the ones who would stop at nothing to lift themselves up, even if it means stepping on the back of others to do so. The very first question these people ask themselves when interacting with anyone is "What's in it for ME". Shall you happen to have nothing to bring them, they will not only discard you, they will try to crush you. But the worst part is that, at first, they will make you think they have your best interest at heart. So you fall into the trap, begin a one-sided relationship with them where they completely suck you dry, then leave you for dead.
Fortunately, I don't know too many of the latter here in town. In my 6 years as a Cornwallite, I've met only 2. And they were not even from here.
This holiday season, I want to wish all the selfless people love, peace, health, happiness and prosperity. I want to recognize all of you, who serve this community relentlessly. We, at the Local Seeker, can't give you money for all your efforts, but we can give you this: RECOGNITION. Rest assured that your time, your actions and your devotion are not going unnoticed.
Merry Christmas!
