March 18, 2005 Chautauqua

From the Editor's Computer      

  By now I’m sure everyone has heard about the four RCMP officers who were killed two weeks ago near Mayorthorpe.  To the vast majority of us, who did not know them personally, they are nothing more than a picture in the paper and a tragic headline.

   For me, that changed when I watched the memorial service last week which was held in Edmonton. Anecdotes, and other memories, shared by family and friends gave us all a glimpse into the personalities of these four men.

   A father spoke of his promise to his son, Peter Schiemann, to tell everyone of Jesus and the hope He offers to us all if anything ever happened to Peter.

   A fellow officer, and brother, spoke of how he idolized his older (by nine minutes) twin brother, Leo Johnston, and how he spent his life striving to be as good as Leo.

   A friend spoke about Tony Gordon’s fierce competitive spirit and how he usually won every competition, except when he played crib with his wife.

   A family friend spoke about how Brock Myrol had such an adventurous nature, and travelled to various countries, including Africa where he trained to be a guide.

   These are very small facets of each of the men, but facets that remind us that each was someone’s son...a beloved family member...a cherished friend...and so much more than just a tragic headline.  They had dreams...one was newly engaged, one a newly wed, another an expectant father.  They were loved and they loved in return. 

   We all should be expressing our gratitude to the members of the RCMP, whose presence allows us to live in the peace and safety that we all too often take for granted and expect will always be.  Our lives would be so different without them to protect us.  But we should be express our thanks all the time, not just when something tragic happens to remind us of what we have.

   We also need to remember that what happened to Peter, Leo, Tony and Brock could happen to any one of our own officers.  Let us pray that it does not.

   To the family and friends of the four men I extend my sincerest sympathies and prayers.  May their sacrifice never be forgotten.     

Beth

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March 4, 2005 Chautauqua

From the Editor's Computer     

   I must be starting to get a touch of spring fever as I am sitting here and I can’t think of a thing to write!  Either that, or else I have so much swirling around in my brain that I can’t isolate one single thought that I am wanting to expand on or share.  I also hope I haven’t forgotten anything important.

   The days have been beautiful with the increased sunshine, warmer temperature, and melting ice and snow.  I’ve taken some time to work outside moving some of the more persistent piles of snow and ice. 

   Spring is a time when we throw off the darkness of the winter season and embrace the sunshine.  When we throw off the parka and look for lightweight clothing.  When we look for signs of new life and the returning birds.

   As we start moving towards more spring-like conditions outside, don’t forget to appreciate the changes around you as you add an extra “spring” to your step!  

Beth

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