Dear Neighbor,
Thanksgiving is Thursday, making it the perfect time to share details of how recent meetings/events I attended provided reasons to be thankful.
It starts with a brain injury and stroke town hall forum in St. Cloud. People were there to share dramatic stories of how brain injuries or strokes changed their existence. The lengths to which many people who have been afflicted must go to make ends meet is eye-opening. It is tough to pay the rent and cover medical expenses, much less have anything left over at the end of the month, when opportunities to work are diminished and Social Security is your main source of income.
The Legislature needs to do something to make improvements in this realm. These are people who truly need help and we should to take a good hard look at what can be done. It could involve increased training and/or funding for personal care assistants, or ways we can reduce their cost of living.
This is the second year I have gone to this town hall meeting and both times I have walked out thinking not enough people hear these stories. We can be thankful for the important services PCAs and others provide for people who suffer from brain injuries, strokes and other ailments.
I also attended an area mayors' prayer breakfast. We heard from David Wheaton, a former professional tennis player who has rediscovered his spirituality.
David grew up in a strong Christian household, but said those values were challenged during his college years and as he ascended the ranks as one of the world's best tennis pros. He started to question his purpose in life and regretted how important relationships had frayed. His faith was rekindled and now he has made a name in radio, writing and speaking – particularly through his national radio show The Christian Worldview. We can be thankful for people like David who dedicate themselves to sharing the good word and helping others find fulfillment.
The Roosevelt Boys and Girls Club held an event at their new gymnasium in St. Cloud and I was pleased to attend. The club raised more than $1.3 million for this new facility after a fire destroyed the gym it previously used. Area children have a new place to play indoors as they learn skills that will help them succeed in life. Clubs such as this make our communities better and are reasons to be thankful, especially the people behind them who work so hard.
This also is a time to be thankful for those who protect us, from firefighters and police officers to veterans and service members on active duty, unable to be home with their families for Thanksgiving.
These are just a few reasons we can be thankful. I am sure you and your family can come up with many more as we celebrate Thanksgiving.
Good luck,
Jeff