I enjoyed reading Richard Phelps’ recent column entitled “The Painted Rock Controversy.” Painted rock or Kindness rock projects are simply meant to brighten someone’s day and spread a little kindness in the often troubled world in which we live. They are a reminder that little things in life matter. Kindness rocks had their inception many years ago in Cape Cod. Since then the painted rock movement has grown not only nationwide, but worldwide.

I have been painting rocks and putting them out for others to find since I found my first painted rock many years ago. It made me smile.

Mr. Phelps, I would like to thank you for your staunch defense of the painted rock you found while hiking. You saw first hand how such a little thing brightened your day. Painted rocks could never compete with the beauty of our natural world. They aren’t meant to.  I hope one day the person who stated that painted rocks are trash (who ironically found one and took it home to keep) will be blessed to see the face of a child light up with joy as he finds one along his path. It’s a great experience.

Wallkill Rocks is part of the Vision of Wallkill community group in Wallkill, NY. Our mission is to spread joy, kindness and a sense of community through creativity. Our rocks are meant to be kept or re-hidden for others to find. Our rocks have traveled to other states and countries. If you take a walk around the Wallkill community or perhaps the Walden-Wallkill rail trail, you just might find one. Those that find a rock are encouraged to post a picture on our page. We do rock painting with groups such as scouts and youth groups. We also have rock painting sessions at events such as the Weekend of Wallkill. Rock painting is therapeutic and for all levels of artistry. Anyone of any age can paint. If you’d like to join our project or find out more, please like and follow Wallkill Rocks on Facebook.