Hometown Indiana

By BONNIE ZICKGRAF
Guest Columnist

I drove to the fairgrounds on Sunday, Aug. 16, to drop off a few items for people impacted by the historical floods in Indiana. I understood that 170 people, four dogs, and one groundhog were all rescued Saturday in our immediate area from the rapid, potentially deadly waters.

I parked the truck, grabbed my purse and several of the grocery sacks and trekked into Hall A.  As I opened the door, one young gentleman hollered a big, “Can I help?!”, grinning ear-to-ear with a big, warm smile.

He was more than happy to lend a hand; he grabbed the sacks and said he would be right back to help me with the rest. As we walked together out to the parking lot, he asked how my day was going. I told him, “It’s sunny today and no rain, thank God for that!”

He agreed and I asked him how his day was going, to which he replied, “Well, I’m just trying to be helpful and kind and trying not to get in anybody’s way here today.”

To which I exclaimed, “I don’t think kindness can ever get in the way!” and thanked him for being so helpful to me … and to our less-fortunate neighbors.

This is Hoosier hospitality. In each corner of our town, you can find every fruit of the spirit in some form or fashion:

“Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23, NLT)

If you’ve ever been treated otherwise, you don’t need to look far here for that gentle heart, a kind smile, or a strong handshake in our hometown.

A place where neighbors help neighbors … and beyond … even … the groundhogs.

Because all creatures and divine creation were lovingly and kindly shared with us first by our mighty God, so we can do exactly that. Love Him and love others.

Noblesville IS Hometown Indiana, and we are very truly blessed!

(Thank you, kind person at the fairgrounds and to those who rescue critters!)

Rev. Bonnie Zickgraf is a retired pastor, registered nurse, electroplater, and podcaster. She continues to serve various preschool, youth, and adult ministries, including the Nurses’ Honor Guard for the State of Indiana. She loves to laugh, write, eat, and pray! Send comments to bonniezickgraf@gmail.com.