Negativity and selfishness gets great publicity in our social networking, indirect-contact society. You’d be led to believe the world’s running low on good people and that no one cares for or respects one another anymore. Their only concerns are themselves; and when they’re in need, no one is willing to lend them a hand without reward.
This is not the case. Kind, caring, selflessly-generous people still exist. Ted Yoder is a shining example.
Yoder, an acclaimed composer, instrumentalist and singer, gained notoriety by revolutionizing the hammered dulcimer – both a percussion and stringed instrument with roots dating back to 900 A.D.
The Goshen, Indiana native and National Hammer Dulcimer Champion has been profiled by such outlets as NPR’s All Things Considered and The Huffington Post for both his mastery and pop-symphonic use of the instrument dubbed “Yoderizing”.
Comprised of 91 crisscrossing strings, the dulcimer resembles a spider web. This makes Yoder somewhat of a spider-man. While he’s netted the adoration of millions via online videos, he tours cities and friendly neighborhoods across the country performing live.
Yoder’s fun, inspirational songs stick to the hearts of his listeners. While good at what he does, he’s also a good person and one who believes in helping others.
I asked Ted Yoder to tell me about a time when he did something nice for someone he didn’t know. Here’s what he shared.
“A couple months ago my wife and I were at one our favorite little hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurants and two policemen came in to eat. We paid for their meals.
Then two more of their coworkers came in to join them about 15 minutes later. We bought their food too. We like to do this to show our appreciation and support for those who risk their lives for us common folk.
We also like to surprise people at the grocery store and buy their groceries. Especially our veterans and moms with kids.
When I’m on the road, I like to buy the meal of the person behind me in the drive through or meal line.
Our world is so full of indecision, divisiveness, and selfishness. These things are in my own heart and mind on a daily basis. I’m definitely no saint, but I feel that if I can touch someone with an act of kindness. I’m fighting my demons by forcing myself to look beyond my troubles, considering others more important than myself.
One good deed can make a difference and I just want to do my part.” |THIS.
[By Mr. Joe Walker]
“We are the ones who make a brighter day, so let’s start giving.” – ‘We Are the World’
