Last year I wrote a post about finding a garden at Susquehanna University. It was no ordinary garden. It was a garden that held inspirational rocks with messages of hope and love.
The rock I chose that day held the message, “You are Worth It”. It meant so much to me, especially during this time that I am my mother’s caregiver. Even though I did not have a rock to leave (and it doesn’t matter if you do or don’t), I took that rock home and placed it in my flower pot.
I talked to my daughter’s childhood friend about the garden I found. Having researched the Kindness Rocks Project Garden website, I knew I wanted to have one in my hometown of Clinton, PA. Steph, who works in the recreation department for Findlay Township, said “Sure!”. Last November we held a community event and painted rocks. They were beautiful!
On Saturday, April 28, 2018, it was a rainy, chilly morning. A social media site popped up on my phone and said it was “Pay It Forward” day. Wow, I thought, There are no coincidences! Starting this garden was a wonderful way to pay forward the inspiration I found last year.
I checked my weather app at 9:30 am and it said the rain was stopping in 15 minutes. I arrived at the Rainbow’s End Playground in Clinton Park, and indeed, the rain was ceasing. Minutes after 10 am, the sun came out from behind a cloud and shone down on us.
I knew this was a magnificent sign. God always reveals the light whenever we need it, doesn’t (s)He? We all have those moments when we need to know that we are on the right track. Having a project where I can do for others, without thought of payment or obligation, is what I’m about these days. There are some things you just cannot put a price on. This is one of them.
When I placed the rock I found last year into our Kindness Rocks Garden, I had a special feeling. I knew that is where it belonged. It was ready to make someone else feel loved and special. When I visit the university this June, I am going to take one of our rocks and place it in their garden. Yes, full circle.
I want to thank Steph from the bottom of my heart. She made my dream come true. I want to thank all of my family and friends who painted and participated. Special thanks to Armstrong Telephone, Chris Caruso of Findlay Township, Sue, and both the Parks and Recreation, and Road Departments. Without all of them, this garden would not be a reality.
If you live in the area, please come and visit! Take a rock if one inspires you! I’d love if you would take a picture if you do come and share it on our Facebook page. Findlay Township Kindness Rocks Project. (please like and follow us!)
Here’s more pictures from our dedication!
I absolutely love this.
Isn’t it awesome? If you ever have to come to the Pittsburgh airport, it’s five minutes from there. Google Clinton Park and you’ll find it by the Rainbow’s End Playground. Take a rock!
I love finding those rock messages in unexpected places…never envisioned a garden of them. You are a gem! Keep up the good work.
Thank you! And if you are coming to the airport, stop by and pick a rock. It’s five minutes from there! xoxo
Beautiful! Sometimes a simple single word is all someone needs to help them through a difficult time and gives them inspiration to go on . God bless you! Keep up the good work Joanne! ??
Thank you Michele! If you’re ever in the area, come for a visit. Take home a bit of inspiration! xo
Hi Joanne, ? Congratulations to you for creating this Kindness Rock Project to spread joy in the lives of others! Beautiful day, beautiful pictures, and a beautiful dedication to inspire others with kindness. I love how this has come full circle for you! Such a special feeling it must have been to place your special rock in the Rainbow’s End Playground, and now to place one of yours in the place where you found the one that meant so much to you?
It is true Cindy. This means alot of me to have this garden and for me to be able to take a rock to Susquehanna. How wonderful and kind for you to be a part of this. Please come and visit and take a rock for inspiration. I’d love it. xo
Such a lovely idea, and how wonderful that everyone came together to make a Kindness Rocks garden.
Yes! You can go to the main website (there’s a link in the post) and click on it. I bet there is one near you! Good to hear from you my dear. xo
I just love Leonard Cohen’s quote……….that’s how the light gets in…….. Your project is a wonderful creation. Beginning (you finding the rock and your brain swirling with ideas) to the middle (this beautiful idea that took shape and manifested itself in the garden) to the completion of the circle…. when you take a rock back this summer. Such a charming and wonderful idea. I especially love the word Kindness. I am going to figure out a way to utilize the word kindness more this week.
It has felt like a Pinch Me moment so many times. I love that it is there and that it represents kindness. Thank you for your support! It means so much to me. Xo