A well-deserved award!

Yesterday began with the sad news of Paul's death; it ended with an acknowledgement of what Zac's means to the vulnerable in the community. It was started and has been led for twenty-five years by Sean Stillman who last night won the South Wales Evening Post Community Lifetime Achievement Award.

Well-deserved recognition for the best person I know.

I tuned in to watch the event online and it was so heartening. With three nominees for each category - such as Mentor, Carer, Fundraiser etc - we were given a tiny glimpse into the goodness of ordinary everyday people. People who quietly go beyond what's required of them in work, or who voluntarily dedicate great swathes of their own time to helping others in one way or another. 

In a world dominated by greed and self-interests of politicians and big businesses it was a timely reminder that the majority of people are jolly good eggs.

What I found especially touching was that Sean's nomination appeared to have come from someone who has benefitted rather than a peer. The other nominations were lengthy and pointed out the candidate's worthiness for this and that. Sean's nominator said, 'For the last 25 years, Sean has ran Zac’s Place in Swansea, dedicating his time to helping the vulnerable members of society and improving their wellbeing. On Tuesdays, he gives bible lessons and runs a small stall to support those less fortunate. On a Thursday evening, he gives meals to the homeless and provides clothes and extra help if it is needed or wanted.'

To be honest it was so simple I thought it unlikely that Sean would win. The judges obviously had netter sense than I gave them credit for!