– Charles Schwab

Life is a journey. Even for flowers and plants, life is a journey.

That is what I was thinking while weeding and digging in the dirt, wanting to help the plants grow. Silently the green leaves grow. Silently the flowers bloom and silently they die.

We are all on an exciting journey called life. We will only make this journey once. We relish the miraculous signs of new life in the appearance of flowers and baby birds flitting among the bushes. I have many baby birds scampering around the yard. We also admire the fluffy cotton-like clouds drifting overhead.

In this fast moving world of turmoil, problems and upsets, good things and stressful things happen. I did not plan on this happening. I was on my way to a graveside service at St. Demetrios Cemetery when I heard and felt thump and bump, thump and bump. I pulled over to the side of the road. Yes, I had a flat front tire. I thought, lucky I have my new cell phone with me. I tried calling AAA but I could not get the phone to ring out.

It was a hot morning, I could see all the cars at the cemetery, which was straight down the street. I am vexed because I will miss the ceremony. In a chaotic state, I was roasting in the hot car on Edwards Avenue, Westview Plaza in Biddeford. Who can I go to? How can I call?

I got out of the car and looked around. There were several storefronts in the plaza so I walked over and knocked on doors. Three of the places were closed. I came to Westview Framing, I peeked in and found that the business was open. I felt like a weary traveler as I entered.

I want to thank Ray Patoine for his unexpected courtesy, thoughtfulness and kindly help. A hand reached out to help in a time of sudden need. Although Ray was working on something in the backroom, he called AAA and watched my car while I went to the ceremony.

They are Ray Patoine and Sue Patoine of Westview Framing, custom picture and custom window treatments. Kindness in words creates confidence with a spirit of kindness.

There are lots of activities and fun in Saco. You are invited to Saturday’s 46th Saco Main Street Sidewalk Art Festival in the historic downtown, sponsored by Shaheen & Gordon, P.A..

For the first time Saco Main Street is presenting “Music in the Park’ing Lot.” For six Thursdays, 6 to 8 p.m., July 7-Aug. 11, between the Saco Museum and Dyer Library there will be free concerts with a wide range of music, sponsored by Bangor Savings Bank. Visit Facebook for the latest updates and bands.

— Zaffie Hadiaris of Saco is the host of “Zaffie,” a weekly television talk show on Channel 3 Biddeford public access. It can also be seen at biddefordmaine.org. Contact Hadiaris at [email protected].