Contents: Community Bulletin Recommends: It's here! Now ... we offer Play Peg
Solitaire |
Reflections As I sit here and write this opening article, we’re experiencing our worst heat spell of the season. It’s not a bad time to reflect on my experiences related to the first eight editions of this publication, since it’s far too hot for any type of strenuous physical labor. Over the last eight months, I have had the good fortune to meet and get to know many folks in our community - local politicians, business owners and operators, members of the clergy, leaders of various non-profit organizations, and citizens of the area. I can report, and I know it comes as no surprise to most of you, that there are many good things happening in our community. Without exception, every single person I have talked to has been cheerful and helpful. I’m reminded of the slogan of a well known communications giant - "Reach out and touch someone." In this fast-paced world filled with an overwhelming volume of information, it’s easy to get caught up in our daily routines and overlook the needs of family members, friends, and neighbors; or, as Paul Simon wrote in his well known work Sounds of Silence to become "people hearing without listening." Many of my new friends and neighbors, residents of our wonderful community, have made the effort to "listen" to me and my life has certainly been enriched as a result. A few years ago at the Seattle Special Olympics, nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the 100-yard dash. At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish to run the race to the finish and win. All, that is, except one boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times and began to cry. The others slowed down and looked back. They all turned and went back. One girl with Down’s Syndrome bent down and kissed him and said, "This will make it better." All nine linked arms and walked across the finish line together. Everyone in the stadium stood, and the cheering went on for several minutes. People who were there are still telling the story. Why? Because deep down we know this one thing: What matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves. What truly matters in this life is helping others win, even if it means slowing down and changing our course. I think that’s what makes our community so special. My personal experiences and observations tell me that there are many in our community who are eager to help others win. Tim Harrison, Editor This site is hosted by: Starix Internet Services, Inc. |
