Commentary

Posted in: Commentary
Commentary: Gratitude
By Mitch Traphagen
Aug 21, 2008 - 7:31:02 PM

You don’t see much of this in the news these days but to me, there is much to be grateful for.  I am grateful beyond words to the many people who have written or stopped by offering help or suggestions for the newspaper.  I wish there were words beyond ‘thank you’ to describe what your offers have meant.  

I am grateful and humbled to be a part of a community that places emphasis on community - and the children within.  I am grateful for the first responders I have met here - the firefighters who work so hard to raise the money they need to keep us and our property safe - and the law enforcement officers who have repeatedly demonstrated through professionalism and integrity that they are indeed committed to the motto, “to protect and serve.”

Speaking of law enforcement, though my advancing age has left speeding in my somewhat distant past, I am grateful to the state trooper who, just a few hours ago, made a downward motion with his fingers as he approached - as I absentmindedly approached him a healthy ten miles per hour over the limit.

I am grateful for a government that I have witnessed working as it should - a place where our elected officials actually do remember they are representatives of the people.  I am grateful for the honesty I have found here - it is truly unlike anywhere else I have been - and I am in awe of the modesty that is shown despite what incredible successes you are - with your children and with your communities and your lives in general.  I am grateful that I have moved here - had I not, I’m not certain I would ever have believed what I’ve seen.

Thank you for inviting me and this newspaper into your lives.  Thank you for your trust.  I promise that I will work hard to continue earning it.



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