“Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.” – Psalm 37:3
Winters in Wisconsin are rough. The average temperature is 30 degrees in America’s Dairyland. Not only is it cold, but Wisconsin is one of the states with the highest snowfall. The winter weather makes even the simple task outdoors a difficult one. When garbage day arrives in Wisconsin, people often must drag their cans to the curb through heavy snow and ice. It is a task that must be done, but the weather makes it challenging.
One neighborhood in Appleton, Wisconsin, has been experiencing a winter mystery. A wonderful surprise has been taking place in the cold and snow. Before leaving for work, homeowners would drag their trash cans though the snow to the curb. When they returned home from work, the trash cans were returned to the house. This happened at several houses, on many streets. It was a welcomed gesture after a long day of work. It was a joy to return home and not have to drag an empty can through the snow.
Just before Christmas, Melody Luttengger decided to keep watch to discover the identity of the secret good Samaritan. It was not long into the day when she saw Dick Pontzloff walking down the street. The 75-year-old man, who lived a few streets over, walked to Melody’s trash can and pulled it up the drive. Melody went out to meet him and she was blessed by the encounter. Dick was recently retired. Each day he went on long walks. As the days became shorter and colder, Dick decided to begin helping his neighbors. Not just a few of them, but as many as he could. So, while he was out walking, he would put up their trash cans.
When Dick was asked why he did that, he said it was simple. “Just be nice to all people. It’s just what you got to do,” he said. “Just think if you were at home and you needed someone’s help.”
Building a better world starts close to home. Doing a kind deed when out for a walk is a wonderful way to bless your neighbors and help inspire others to live a life of kindness and service. When Dick Pontzloff pulled trash cans to the curb, he did far more than return empty containers to the house. He helped spread joy and kindness. A better world is kinder, and trash cans are a good place to start.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
