The age-old German proverb sums up the spirit of Portland’s generous nonprofit organization, Potluck in the Park.

As board chairwoman Cheri Baber observes in the recent article “One simple thing”[1] by Jillian Daley:

“People do not always choose the situation in which they find themselves, Baber says, and Potluck doesn't ask that they do anything but enjoy a meal, providing people one simple thing to make their lives easier.”

The article also tells of a unique love story. And it announces the upcoming benefit concert by Portland musician Tom Grant and his band: Winter Warm 6 Concert, 5:30 p.m. November 29, 2012, Tiffany Center Fourth Floor, 1410 SW Morrison St.[2]

Bentari is a story all about love—and love under perilous attack. Music and songs are also important themes. And, as for charity, well, wait until you get a load of the generosity described in Bentari’s next adventure!

Here is a passage from Chapter 14 “A Tribe of Orphans”. Bentari’s grandfather, on his way into battle, finds a quiet moment on the plain at night. The chief’s courage is tested by the steep odds against his men—yet the memory of his wife Shassi lends him a measure of strength that will do:

“The chief felt ready for some much needed rest. Wearily, he began to saunter away from the nearby forest’s edge and back toward his men and their camp. A worried thought festered in his tired mind, furrowing his brow. Shall we, the orphan tribe, survive these troubled times? Or shall we die and leave my grandson an orphan to fight on, alone? No. The thought would not reconcile. The image of his wife gave his tired frame a jolt. There she was—working hard despite debilitating illness. There she was, smiling upon the children. No. Shassi would never let an orphan, any orphan, go unattended. No. Mankani felt the jolt again. He was tired no more.”

Image: Denise Williams, a long-time Potluck in the Park volunteer, crochets scarves, which she gives as Christmas presents to the people who attend her group’s free Sunday meals. (Jillian Daley, Special to The Oregonian)

[1] See Community News, The Oregonian, 11/9/2012, or on-line at: http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2012/11/potluck_in_the_park_volunteers.html

[2] See websites for Potluck in the Park or Tom Grant/Appearances: http://www.potluckinthepark.org/ or http://tomgrant.com/appearances