To make a difference in our world, we don't need to be flashy - for many of us, it's a way of life

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Bonnie Moore is an everyday hero. The story of her action to help an elderly neighbour who was stuck in her bathtub is the perfect example of the kind of low-key acts of moral fortitude that characterize our communities.

Bonnie's decision to listen to her instincts - that her neighbour's open door at 3 a.m. was out of the ordinary - meant the difference between the woman's aches and pains and the more serious harm that could have befallen her.

According to the local RCMP, these kinds of acts are becoming more common, not less, in our communities. It seems more people are taking the time to report things that seem unusual or our of place, even if it doesn't affect them directly, which often helps the RCMP with their jobs.

Whether it's a door open where it shouldn't be, an older person who looks lost or confused, or an unfamiliar car parked in an strange location for a unusual length of time, the people in our communities are taking care of each other.

In a world in which it seems that people don't have time for their own families, let alone others, we're showing that our reputation for friendliness and honesty are well-deserved. Newcomers and visitors are often pleasantly surprised when a teenager returns their wallet in Moncton or a woman in Sackville volunteers to show them around the town.

Those of us who have grown up with these behaviours ingrained into our psyches often forget how welcome our unsolicited assistance can be. we take for granted that people will behave this way. In the process, we lose the opportunity to celebrate one of the best aspects of our way of life.

We pass on these values to our young people when we take time to highlight examples in the community around us. Every dinner table in southeastern New Brunswick should have had a discussion about Bonnie Moore last week.

Talking to the next generation about what they would do in a similar situation, especially when we emphasize that everyday actions can have important consequences, helps to teach them that we value those who take time out to think of others.

This week, take the time to notice and acknowledge the ways in which those around you are everyday heroes. From the paper carrier who helps to tie a young child's shoe to the older gentleman that picks up a dropped hat, say thank you to those who take the time to re-inforce our cultural identity as a helpful community.