Hank had a cold this week which kept him home from day care on Monday andTuesday–that gave Karen and I an opportunity to spend the time with a slightly grumpy wee man. Day one was priceless as Hank and I sat on the couch watching Captain Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Paw Patrol and PJ Masks. Hank was content to sit still with an occasional spurt of energy to run around the house. It was great to have the time to invest in hanging out. Hank and I have a lot in common when it comes to looking for heroes and positive role models. Captain Jake and his crew are always doing good and have even befriended Captain Hook. The Paw Patrol is a group of dogs with super powers who are also there to help anyone in need. Finally, in PJ Masks, the kidstransform into Owelette, the Gecko and Cat Boy and combine their super powers to save the day. I know — too much television but educational and to our point–examples of people intentionally helping others.
I attended the American Red Cross Hometown Heroes luncheon this week. No super powers but nine honorees from Idaho whose poise and clear thinking under pressure saved a life. Young Bella Rossman was watching television with her Grandfather when she realized he was shaking and not responsive–she had been on a field trip and knew to call 911. That timely call saved a life. Charley Finlayson was hiking with his father in the Frank Church wilderness when a boulder broke loose and resulted n a 30 foot fall and multiple broken bones and deep cuts for his father. Charley determined that he had to go for help and started off on the 13 mile journey back to the trail-head. Charley found help for his dad after a few miles and continued on to find a radio to call a much needed helicopter for the rescue. Each person who was honored had a very similar response – I was just doing what anyone else would do. We can certainly use heroes in our world today.
Thursday night I attended the annual Bogus Basin Bridge Builders dinner. It was an extraordinary snow year and spirits were high as they paid tribute to individuals and companies for their support. I was most impressed by the poem which is recited each year by Dr. Fullweiller. The poem written by Will Allen Dromgoole tells the story of an old man who “crosses a chasm deep and wide through which was flowing a sullen tide”. He makes it safely across and turns to build a bridge to span the tide. When questioned about the reason to invest his time and energy in a bridge he would never cross the builder lifted his old grey head and simply said “a youth whose feet must pass this way…..he, too, must cross in the twilight dim; good friend I am building this bridge for him! “. Paying it forward is something I admire – those who are selfless are the heroes oftomorrow for Hank. “Don’t look any further than your reflection for a hero.” Anonymous
My brother Jeff continues to fight to recover from his fall and several subsequent cranial surgeries. This morning we got positive news, he is awake and heading to acute care rehab in Boise. It will take all of his energy and the support of his wife, daughter and extended family to regain his strength. Jeff has faced challenges before and over come them. Jeff is a hero to all of his family and friends because he faced his personal demon, alcohol, and has been sober for nearly twenty years. Thanks to each of you who have kept Poohie in your mind and prayers.
“If not you, then who? If not now, then when?” Hillel the Elder. I hope each of you has a chance to make a difference for someone. We can all be heroes.
Enjoy the fantastic week end weather. Mike