People don’t always see the direct effect their good deeds have on others, but that doesn’t stop them from making a difference in their respective communities.

Consider people such as Gracie Johnson, Bob Luck, Justin Sumblin and Emmett Reeves. They each recently gave a pint of their precious blood during a Red Cross visit in Franklin. Luck, who is 76 years old, gave a unit that puts him in the big league of donors: 25 gallons. He’s grateful to be healthy enough to make such a periodic contribution.

Johnson is the woman who said that day she gives knowing only that other people benefit from her gift.

Would that we all could have that attitude and put it into practice. That can apply not just for donating blood, but also enriching the city and county by volunteering one’s time and talents in civic and social activities.