“Ball even tracked down Gander mayor Claude Elliott for the story. He said of the Gander 9/11 response, "We did the only thing we know how to do, which was to comfort them, console them, and show them some love.” LoveKindnessComfortResponseConsolation Book:Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11 Source: Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11
“When I first met David and Irene, none of us knew how timely the message of "Come From Away" would soon become. I think it's not a coincidence that the musical's appeal has grown at the same time as we've seen a resurgence of talk by people of influence in the public sphere that encourages people who fear or hate foreigners or people from different cultures. Civil wars, climate change, and religious conflicts have caused the world's refugee crisis to grow, and people are struggling with how to handle strangers in need arriving upon their doorsteps and at the borders.” LoveCultureKindnessStruggleTimely Book:Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11 Source: Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11
“We all found it was truly remarkable what everyone in this tiny town had done for us. We reflected on what it was that gave Ganderites their attitude of kindness to strangers. People told me that's just how they were raised. The people of Gander and all of Newfoundland have a deep sense of interconnectedness and compassion. They rely on each other, especially during the harsh winter months. It's not uncommon for someone to spend hours snow-blowing a neighbor's driveway before their own. The cold temperatures keep them indoors a lot, so entertaining guests for meals, drinking, and dancing in their homes is a way to be happy. I wished I could export some of that hospitality and kindness around the world. We've seen countless examples of people helping strangers after terrorist attacks and natural disasters, but why can't we treat each other this way on a regular basis?” LoveHelpingCompassionHospitalityKindess Book:Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11 Source: Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11