Smiles, Faith and a Comma Necklace: Vern’s Beautiful Reminder of Hope

After meeting Vernon on a previous Petal It Forward delivery, we immediately knew he was someone special.

His rule for visitors is simple: “You must smile when you enter my room!”

So, on a recent Petal It Forward delivery, volunteers Barb, Cheryl, Nancy, Sue and Program Coordinator, Katie, all gathered to listen to his stories and wisdom.

When asked about the comma necklace he wears, he shared, “Where you put a period, God puts a comma.” It’s a symbol of his faith and belief that God’s work is never done.

In his 90s, Pastor, Farmer and published author, Vernon continues to live with purpose, sharing daily reflections he calls “Baderisms” and poems he hangs outside his room or on his wheelchair (pictured below). More than 900 messages later, his words continue to plant seeds of hope wherever he goes.

Thank you, Vern, for reminding us that kindness and purpose are timeless.

Help us meet and share more amazing stories of community members like Vernon. Your gift to Hope Blooms helps create more moments of kindness and connection. Donate today!