On Friday, former President George W. Bush offered a message of hope and healing as part of "The Call to Unite". Led by Special Olympics CEO Tim Shriver, "UNITE" is addressing universal challenges that can only be solved through collaboration and a shared conviction that we are stronger together.

In his message, President Bush encouraged creative and compassionate humanity during this time of great challenge and social distancing. An excerpt from his moving reflections:

“First, let us remember we have faced times of testing before. Following 9-11, I saw a great nation rise as one to honor the brave, to grieve with the grieving, and to embrace unavoidable new duties. And I have no doubt, none at all, that this spirit of service and sacrifice is alive and well in America.

“Second, let us remember that empathy and simple kindness are essential and powerful tools of national recovery. Even at an appropriate social distance, we can find ways to be present in the lives of others to ease their anxiety and share their burdens.

“Third, let’s remember that the suffering that we experience as a nation does not fall evenly. In the days to come it will be especially important to care in practical ways for the elderly, the ill, and the unemployed.

“Finally, let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat. In the final analysis, we are not partisan combatants. We’re human beings, equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together … and we’re determined to rise. God bless you all.”

Honoring Resilience

We're so fortunate to partner with private sector leaders, who share one thing in common -- regardless of size -- their compassionate commitment to community.

We love our friends at College Hype, who ensure our annual Class of unsung heroes are ready to serve in their signature navy blue tees. Over the years, Jack, Margaret, Kathleen, and the whole College Hype crew have guided and inspired us with their many acts of generosity.

Their latest effort is motivated by the resilience and heroism of health care workers, and a health crisis experienced by Jack, College Hype's owner. A story with a happy ending, thanks to South Shore Health.

The “Resilience 2020” tee is a message of strength and solidarity -- with sales that have generated more than $25,000 in donations to Boston Medical Center and South Shore Health!

This wonderful WBZ | CBS Boston profile showcases College Hype's big hearts and generous spirits. And, yet another shining example of the creativity and compassion of our great Commonwealth.

#goodnews

Last week, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo shared a moving story about a quiet act of profound grace.

In two acts.

First, the letter:

"Dear Mr. Cuomo,

I seriously doubt that you will ever read this letter as I know you are busy beyond belief with the disaster that has befallen our country.

We currently (as of March 26, 2020) are a nation in crisis. Of that there is no doubt. Your approach has been spot on correct. I commend you for that and for especially telling the truth, something that has been sorely lacking as of late.

I am a retired farmer hunkered down in northeast Kansas with my wife who has but one lung and occasional problems with her remaining lung. She also has diabetes.

We are in our 70s now and frankly I am afraid for her.

Enclosed find a solitary N-95 mask left over from my farming days. It has never been used. If you could, would you please give this mask to a nurse or a doctor in your city. I have kept four masks for my immediate family.

Please keep doing what you do so well, which is to lead.

Sincerely, Dennis and Sharon"

Then, the Governor's response:

"A farmer in northeast Kansas.

His wife has one lung and diabetes. He has five masks. He sends one mask to New York for a doctor or nurse, keeps four masks.

You want to talk about a snapshot of humanity? You have five masks. What do you do? You keep all five? Do you hide the five masks? Do you keep them for yourselves or others?

No, you send one mask, one mask to New York to help a nurse or a doctor. How beautiful is that? I mean how selfless is that? How giving is that?

It's that love, that courage, that generosity of spirit that makes this country so beautiful.

And, makes Americans so beautiful...that generosity of spirit...

Take one mask, I'll keep four.

God bless America."