Richmondites found a moment of joy in troubled times

A Richmondite’s granddaughter took her musical talents to the local community to spread hope and joy in a time of social isolation.

Chris Purling, who lives in Steveston, received an unexpected phone call around noon on Thursday from her daughter who asked her to look over her balcony. When she did, Purling saw something that brightened up her whole week.

“My granddaughter was playing her guitar and singing songs. We live across a body of water and she was on the bank of the other side,” said Purling, adding that many people stopped to watch and clapped for the performance, while keeping a safe distance.

“We just feel appreciative of her doing that, especially during this time when everything seems crazy in this world.”

Sophia, 20, a Douglas College student majoring in musical therapy, received enthusiastic applause from the neighbours for her performance of many songs, including “You Say” and “House of the Rising Sun,” according to Purling.

“She didn’t expect any recognition. She has such a good heart. She told us it’s the ideal time to do it when we don’t have a chance to get out,” said Purling.

“It’s so touching that she came and entertained us across the water.”