When cataclysms rock our world, it's a wake up call for all of us. Businesses are shuttered. Social distancing is limiting. Shelter in place rules feel claustrophobic. But despite the discomfort, these efforts truly are for our greater good. The light in the darkness is that the gift of time we now have can allow us to reflect on what's really important and can propel us to create new ideas that can change lives.

One of these ray of light ideas is the brainchild of one of my favorite columnists for the Chicago Tribune, Rex Huppke. Rex originated an idea called #PandemicPals which, while simple, allows positivity and human connection to bring joy to seniors and disabled folks who feel isolated or alone through these challenging days.  It's a shot of hope in the veins to another soldier in this game of life.  All you need to do to participate is to write Rex and his wonderful team at rhuppke@chicagotribune.com and let them know you want to join in the effort to spread a little happiness by writing letters to these deserving people. He'll send you a list of folks and their addresses so you can be part of the #PandemicPals family.

We're excited to send out our first batch of letters this week, and look forward to  sending more in the months that follow. It's a beautiful thing to be alive and to be able to uplift someone else who can use an encouraging word. Kudos to Rex for thinking of others and making this world a brighter place.

Write to rhuppke@chicagotribune.com

❤️,
Kendra & friends @PortaPocket.com

p.s.  The column Rex wrote announcing this fantastic idea was fittingly printed on March 23, my amazing mother's 89th birthday. She's one of the most beautifully positive and generous people you'd ever meet...and is a Chicagoland pianist & composer who recently put out her 5th CD of original work. We're thrilled to send her music along to our #PandemicPals as our gift along with our letters :) 🎈