What did you do?
After discussion with the board, we decided to purchase a bench which could be outdoors all year and require less effort for our volunteer lawn mowing team. It may hold less people, but we wanted those walking up or down the street to see that we are offering a place to rest. We hope to add two small side tables so people can put a snack beside themselves and perhaps have some quiet time to read a book. The day after the bench was installed, the Montessori school at our church asked me how they could source a second bench. Their bench is identical, and they placed it in their playground on our front lawn adjacent to our bench. Now the teachers and children have a place to sit and chat or have a story read to them.
Why did you do it?
Are you wondering, “Why not a table?” If you ride on public transit like many in our city do, an empty seat is quite a welcoming sight. Almost a relief. It invites you to sit and carries the promise of a restful journey home or to work. A bench in the shade under a tree also sends a welcome, and a promise of rest from our journey in life. Unlike a seat on a train, subway, or bus, a bench promises a nice surprising, yet relaxing, visit. We’ve noticed our neighbours are starting to stop and look at the bench so it is time to welcome our neighbours to use it. We will send a notice to the community and post on our Facebook site informing them of the purpose of our bench and to ensure they know they are welcome to sit down and relax. It's simply a place to rest a while and think, re-energize, plan, read, pray, and give thanks.
