RED BRIDGE

A few days ago, Val and I revisited Napier. Driving through the Esk Valley we were reminded again of the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle and marvelled at the work done to clear the munted landscape. But still lots of work to do.

Last Saturday we decided to visit the Red Bridge Coffee Shop in the Tuki Tuki Valley. To get there we needed to drive through Clive, cross the Black Bridge and head south towards the Red Bridge. 

A short drive later we arrived at this cool cafe where we enjoyed some delicious coffees and met the delightful owner/operator Mel. She was great company and invited us to a community and Hawke’s Bay rural coastline event, Fuel Your Stoke presented by MSFT productions. (Being held the next day at the cafe) This event and other similar events are designed to get people together to talk and to listen, especially since the cyclone. 

We drove back to the cafe on the Sunday afternoon where we were greeted by a growing crowd and a range of volunteer organisations such as Green Mountain Grills, the Sallies and the Staros Suicide Support Trust. There were also bouncy castles for the kids and live music. We met Jack, the founder/director of Fuel Your Stoke and #Sparkthatchat. Jack has a passion for helping people. He, like Mel is an authentic person who lives to inspire, care for and be kind to people who are going through stuff. Amazing, inclusive, thoughtful people with genuine hearts, whose actions match their words. Their inclusive approach is working. Keep up the great work guys!

POINTS TO PONDER
As an analogy, consider how you could help someone you know to get over their ‘black bridge’ and head towards a ‘red bridge’. Interestingly, the colour red can symbolise sacrifice and courage and it also represents love and joy.
Community and connection are vital in helping people. Get with others to help where, when and how you can.
Being kind could save a life. Be a good listener. Follow your heart. Do it.