Look for the helpers



“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

Fred Rogers

Last year our family watched a beautiful day in the neighbourhood, which articulated the life story of children’s presenter Fred Rogers. It is a presentation of the real life, behind the scenes story of a man who spent his days, entertaining children.

Tom Hanks, plays the main protagonist, he quotes his character as saying “Goodness is as mysterious and interesting to write about as badness”. In a world, that constantly sensationalises the difficult parts of life, what if we became people who sought out the good.

Being present to our neighbourhoods, helping those who are in our circle of influence, is one of the greatest legacy’s we can leave when the world is in a seasonal storm.

Rather than seeking out the bad news stories, what if we created good news stories, by being the helpers.

It doesn’t take a lot to help others out amid the storms of life. It just takes the capacity to say yes and do something small.


About Amanda

Amanda Viviers has published ten books and is a presenter on radio across New Zealand and Australia. She is also the co-founder of Kinwomen; a network created to inspire women to start conversations that matter. Head of Narrative for Compassion Australia, she is driven by a passion for social justice, she loves supporting projects for women in developing countries. Teaching women to live creative lives, beyond the circumstances, is something she pursues daily. Wife of Charl and Mum of Maximus and Liberty, she lives a creative life, longing to see people live inspired. Pinterest/ Twitter/ @Mandaviviers Instagram: @amandaviviers Facebook: @amandaviviersperth