Grateful for a community that cares
During long and arduous civil and military careers where the pen was as mighty as the sword, I have seldom been at a loss for words. But I find myself now struggling to find appropriate means to express my profound appreciation to numerous individuals and the Shepherdstown community at large for their many kind gestures and assistance during my recovery from a broken leg last April. This kind of help is critical when, like is the case with most far-flung American families, normal traditional means of support in an emergency are miles away. Friends and neighbors are as vitally important as family members.
Bonnie and I have always prided ourselves that we knew Shepherdstown and residents in the Eastern Panhandle very well. But, in the past several months, there were a lot of new smiling faces and helping hands. It is very humbling, and I realize that all I can do is pass it on and extend the same kind of help to others, when I become aware that they are in need.
So, thanks everybody. I won’t forget!
As usual, there is a silver lining in most dark clouds, and as I look ahead to the political turmoil and dangers that our nation faces, both here at home and internationally, the kind of assistance that I received and the cohesive mix of professional and social infrastructure that we have is very reassuring. We are blessed by living in a resilient community in which people genuinely care about each other.
Mike Austin, of Shepherdstown