Be Inspired!

Last Sunday I had the privilege of being invited to present the Compassion Awards at a Church service organised by the Trinity Life Church in Highfields in the centre of Leicester. The Awards had been created by their charity Open Hands.

I have been fortunate enough in my lifetime to meet some wonderful people who have achieved extraordinary things - from captains of industry to celebrities who have changed the world and the way we think. But Sunday was about celebrating special people who showed compassion to some very vulnerable people, and who gave their time for the love of those people, for the love of mankind. They didn’t even expect a thank you.

Awards were given to Colin Austin who used to be an MD of a printing company until he retired. Then he turned his skills and energies to volunteering to work for Intercare who send surplus patient-returned medicines to 107 rural health units in six African countries. 80 year-old Laura Williams has been visiting inmates in Leicester and Gartree prisons for over 20 years and is held in the highest esteem and honour by those she visits. Paul Bagworth has Multiple Sclerosis and has for years raised funds and worked extensively to support the Leicester MS Society. A giant of a man, when he came up to receive his award I said ‘I feel so small next to you’. He replied ‘You are small!’. My hand is still recovering from his unbelievably strong hand shake!

Bethany Rowley is only 18 and works to support children with disabilities and other charity initiatives. It was great to see such a young person giving so much of herself to improve others’ lives. Ramesh Mistry, who a few years ago himself survived a brain tumour, has devoted his time to helping others. Mary Gamble, aged 87, works tirelessly to represent and support Age Concern and Chris White runs a soup run with the Salvation Army and a Drop-in Centre for the homeless. Inspiring? Definitely. Humbling? Without question.

I came away from that ceremony feeling uplifted. In this world of uncertainty and economic crisis it made me realise that this country should be really proud of some very, very special heroes who are making a difference to those who probably will not be affected by our challenging economic times but who help people who are just concerned about survival. Long may we continue to applaud such special community treasures.

Yesterday, George Osbourne delivered his first budget. Yes, times are going to be tougher but compared with some disadvantaged folk – through all kinds of reasons and not necessarily of their own making – we really shouldn’t complain.

Let’s hope England win this afternoon and then everyone will feel better about everything!