When a light comes into the world, we hope that it will last indefinitely, knowing that eventually it will fade. When a child is born, a parent doesn’t expect that his or her light will diminish before it has a chance to fully express itself…and yet, sadly it happens.  Abby Schumer was such a one. Her family lives in our community of Doylestown, PA and although I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting her, I am feeling as if I have a small glimpse of the gift she was to her family and those who did know her.

Described by her parents Meg and Mike as someone who cared deeply about others, a curious soul, an avid reader, colorful and playful….taken too soon when on March 24, 2012, she died of brain cancer. Unimaginable pain and loss, but her parents, taking a page from Abby’s book,  are resilient thrivers; as I define it- people who have not only survived challenge or trauma, but have gone on to help others as a result.

Today on what would have been her entre’ into her teen years- her 13th birthday, our  Bucks County Commissioners have proclaimed  Nov. 19 as Random Act of Kindness Day in the county in Abby’s honor.

“Kindness is a way of showing others that they count, even in the face of hostility and selfishness, making a stand for positivity,” said Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia as she read the proclamation. “Random Act of Kindness Day is a worldwide celebration of simple kindness that encourages people to tap into their own human spirit and share it with others, thereby nourishing and strengthening their communities.

“Abby Schumer is local inspiration for the movement here in Bucks County. At the young age of 10 she understood the importance of doing meaningful things for others,” the proclamation continued. “We challenge all Bucks Countians to do something kind for a friend, a loved one, or even a stranger for no reason at all.”

The Schumers have set up a Facebook page that you can visit to learn more about this amazing little girl and the legacy she left  www.facebook.com/abbyslight/

On this day, and all others, I invite you to join me in showering kindness in all forms. Please share this with any and everyone you can. In that way, we can spread the Light that Abby will always be~