Living Up to Our Heroes' Legacies

On this mid-summer afternoon I consider the world that we now live in and its many, many struggles. In these times I realize how very blessed I have been with the gifts of my faith, my family, my friends, home and freedom, and I am so grateful. And yet I think of the Bible passage that says "Of whom much has been given … much will be expected." Truly, I have been given much. As a child, as with most children, I didn't really appreciate the lessons of history and those who went before us and the sacrifices they made to guarantee the greatness of our society. But, as fortune would have it, I married a man who, aside from being a devoted husband and father to our fine children, has instilled in me a great interest in history, which has been one of the loves of his life. Whenever we share moments of a historical nature, inevitably the names of two of his heroes will arise—the blessed Pope John XXIII, and also our first president, George Washington.

Perhaps it has been the events of the past year that have shaken me from my silent and comfortable complacency, or perhaps it is my own coming of age (middle age, that is), or maybe it is that most of our children are now independent and happy young adults, or all of the above. Whatever the reason, I have become very outspoken. I feel so compelled to speak out against the injustices that I see in this world, in our country and in this town. As Pope John XXIII advocated during his papacy, we must all work together to dispel apathy. This holy man admonished all the world to "seek that which unites rather than divides." What timely advice for all of us.

On the civil side, George Washington and his troops literally froze on the battlefield fighting for what they held to be true. Many knew that they would not return to their loved ones, but still they persevered and died for us and for our freedom. What a tragedy it would be if we allowed our country to slowly collapse because of indifference.

I urge the good citizens of our town to get involved and hear the concerns of all the people. Always listen to both sides of all issues so that we can all make well-informed choices and leave this world better than we found it.

Remember our predecessors. May their hardships never have been in vain. Always defend that which is just and challenge the unjust. Become proactive to procure a progressive community.