November 2011

Seeing More Clearly

by Debi Walter

It happened overnight, and no one was more shocked than I was when it was discovered. 

One morning Tom noticed I was straining to read and offered me his reading glasses saying, “Here see if this helps.” When I put them on I did what any respectable person would do - I screamed! 

When did I start needing reading glasses? I hadn’t really noticed how blurry the words had become on the page, because it was gradual. But when what I saw was compared to the clear vision the reading glasses offered, there was no doubt - I needed to wear them.

It’s made me consider how many other things I need, but I don’t know I need until I experience the benefit of them. Like getting to know the person next door, or making the time to participate in one of our neighborhood events. There is a strength and comfort in knowing those around you and being known as well. But like any relationship it takes time and resolve to do it.

What holds us back from making the time? Is it a lack of time? This is always understandable - we lead busy lives. Or is it a lack of need? There comes a time in all of our lives when we need those who live closest to us. We experienced this in 2004 as the storms knocked down large trees and power lines. We experienced this when neighbors have faced personal tragedies. We experience this occasionally when we are in the middle of a recipe and need one ingredient (like pimentos).  Knowing our neighbors is not only a kind thing to do, it can be a necessary thing too.

Hey, I have an idea, why not come to our Fall Festival this Saturday and see if you don’t see more clearly what I’m talking about. Hopefully, it won’t make you scream, but maybe you’ll smile when you realize what you’ve been missing..