Book 17: The spirit of Three Pines in The Madness of Crowds

“Armand saw Annie take Idola from Olivier, while Jean-Guy put his arm around them both. Reine-Marie joined her daughter and granddaughter. One by one Daniel, Stephen, Clara, Olivier, Ruth and Myrna surrounded Idola. As though Professor Robinson’s very thoughts could harm the little girl. And, Armand knew, they could.” This woman who advocates eugenics was approaching precious Idola! … “What made a place safe were the people. The caring. The kindness. The helping.” This automatic response to protect Idola by the villagers and her family, to make sure she was well within the pale, is a perfect example of what the Spirit of Three Pines looks like. There have been times in my life when I would have loved to drive over the rise of that last road, down into Three Pines, walked into the Bistro, and felt like I belonged. I hope that I have embodied the ‘Spirit of Three Pines’ in my personal relationships and will continue to try and provide others a safe space in which to heal and thrive, knowing they are loved for who they are.

The send off for Haniya Daoud. “Reine-Marie was in the mudroom putting on her boots and coat. ‘I’ll drive you to Montreal,’ she said.” The women of Three Pines agree that Billy Williams offer of a taxi is not needed. “‘We’re coming too,’ said Clara, and Myrna nodded. ‘Why?’ asked Haniya. Clara turned to her, surprised. ‘Because that’s what friends do.’ Haniya’s last glimpse of Three Pines was of two elderly people standing on the village green, one with a single finger raised, waving goodbye.” Haniya has been the prickliest of guests, almost seeming to relish insulting and distancing people despite her wish for connection. Three Pines folk do not disappoint; they get it and respond with generosity. The inspiration for me is to offer generosity and engagement to the folks who pluck my nerves and push people away.

“But they (Armand and Isabelle), better than most, knew that no place was really safe from physical harm. Anything could happen to anyone, at any moment. What made a place safe were the people. The caring. The kindness. The helping. Sometimes the mourning. And often the forgiveness.”