“If you could only sense how important you are to those you meet; how important you can be to the people you may never even dream of. There is something of yourself that you leave at every meeting with another person.” – Fred Rogers
We have a book in the shop with this quote in it and it resonated with me. When I shared my personal journey with breast cancer a while back, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support, stories, and encouragement that came flooding in. To everyone who reached out or sent food – thank you. Your kindness was a powerful balm during a challenging time, and I’m incredibly happy to share that, the breast cancer is gone.
In the midst of everything, Wendell House has truly become a sanctuary for me. Stepping into the shop each day has been a remarkable part of my healing process. It’s more than just a place of business; it’s a vibrant space where connections happen, big and small.
Every day, I witness these little echoes of Mister Rogers’ wisdom. Someone comes in searching for a fun treat to share with a friend, a perfectly whimsical item to brighten someone’s day. Just yesterday, a customer meticulously picked out a vintage spoon to go with a special tin of tea, envisioning a quiet moment of comfort for a loved one. And then there was the joyful burst of energy when a group of ladies rushed in, laughing, grabbing beer and wine for an impromptu celebration. We also had the surprise of a heart shaped potato that made someone’s day!
It’s in these moments that I feel so profoundly connected to the beautiful, intricate web of humanity. It’s not just about selling a product; it’s about being a small part of someone’s expression of care, their simple joy, or their spontaneous celebration. Each interaction leaves a little something of both of us behind, creating a tapestry of shared moments.
Wendell House has truly become a place where we not only offer thoughtfully curated goods but also foster these invaluable human connections. Thank you for being a part of this journey, for your support, and for allowing us to be a part of your moments, big and small.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Sarae Lewis
