A Village

One of my most treasured possessions is a rock in my flower bed. It reads, “Grow where God plants you.”

As the youngest of 10, I was blessed enough to have been raised by parents who believed you should work hard, show compassion and give back. I have attempted to live my life by this philosophy.

A little over 17 years ago I was blessed to marry a man who shares my calling. My husband has a heart of gold. He is one of the hardest working, most generous, most compassionate men you will ever meet. He never turns his back on anyone in need and he’s never met a stranger.

A Memphis boy, born and bred, he moved to Mississippi County following our wedding. He did this because he understood my mission and shared my desire to help the people of the Delta prosper. Today, we work side by side at home, at the paper, and in the community. We are a team.

Do we always get along? No. Do we fight? Yes. Is he annoying? Yes. Would I trade him for anyone else in the world? No.

You see, like my father, this man believes in me. And, he shares my mission for the younger generation.

Jim Valvano once said, “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person; he believed in me.”

My father gave me that gift. And, I have watched as my husband gave that gift to his own sons.

And, incredibly, I’ve also witnessed him give that gift to many young athletes in our county. As a former jock, he takes an interest in their lives... he listens, gives advice, encourages, supports and helps whenever he can.

There have been many times when I’ve watched my husband give kids rides home from a ball game; help with their homework; loan a few dollars; or help them get a job, etc.

I listened just last week as a young man, now 30, came into our office and talked about how much he appreciated my husband always checking on him and making sure he was okay.

Sometimes all young people need is an encouraging word... just to be told that someone believes in them. As adults, it is our responsibility to “help raise the village.” It takes every single one of us.

The world is messed up folks and our young people are caught in the turmoil.

Never forget, God plants us each right where He wants us to be.

Sandra Brand is the editor of the NEA Town Courier and The Osceola Times. She may be reached by phone at 870-563-2615 or by email at brand@osceolatimes.com.