By Jeannie Pederson

It is so hard to say goodbye. Margaret Pederson, the creator of the BeKind movement, was a force who worked her entire life to care for others along with her loving family.  Many have commented after reading her life story that they learned so much more about her. It explains how she could continue till the end of her earthly life to advocate for one of her chosen causes, kindness. She was always dreaming of ideas that were realized with help from the members, and as a life-long learner and social worker, her compassion shown bright. Her directive for all of us was to keep moving forward with BeKind, which we will do. We’ll also keep her in our hearts that are filled with gratitude for knowing her. 

Over the years, I had the privilege to connect personally with so many women who like Margaret, gave of their time and talents to enhance our Pope County community. Today, along with Margaret, I’m remembering Brenda Sargent, Donna Hahn, Jan Hirschey, Darlene Femrite, Amy Lee and Sue Anderson. 

The following description is fitting for each of them. They all created the most glitteringly beautiful network. 

You…

If every single person who has liked you in your lifetime, were to light up on a map, it would create the most glitteringly beautiful network you could imagine. Throw in the strangers you’ve been kind to, the people you’ve made laugh, or inspired along the way and that star-bright network of you would be an impressive sight to behold. You’re so much more than you think you are. You have done so much more than you realize. You’re trailing a bright pathway that you don’t even know about. What a thing. What a thing indeed. 

    –Donna Ashworth

Bring love wherever you go. Shine light wherever it’s dark. Leave blessings where you’ve been, be kind where you are. 

                –Anonymous