Frank Borelli
Editor-in-Chief
Officer.com
Yes, it's been awhile. The last blog I wrote (I sadly realized yesterday) was in honor of Veterans Day. I apologize... I know how you all love to read my rantings! But in all seriousness, tis the season... when we law enforcement professionals deal with all of the best - and worst - our society has to offer. When we're dealing with the worst it can sometimes be a challenge not to let it negatively affect us...
Think about it: For those of us with families, we enjoy the blessings of a spouse, children, pets, a home and all the warmth and comfort that comes with such. We also
enjoy the challenges of shopping (out amongst all those we are suspicious of so much), wrapping gifts (which is one of the most tedious chores I've ever done), decorating (knowing full well we just have to take all that down in a few weeks) and more. It's
easy to let the "down side" of things get YOU down. The good news is that there's an equally easy way to not let it.
As you're out and about performing your duties, it's simple enough (and you should be anyway) to pay attention. Look around. See and appreciate the decorations others labored to put up. See and appreciate the family groups as they are out and about, shopping and celebrating (hopefully in a safe fasion). Sure, you probably are going to write an accident report or three, but you'll probably also help a family out by getting them unstuck; unlocking their car for them; giving them directions; seeing their smiles and - if you think about it - observing the joy they're sharing this holiday season.
And I firmly believe that it really doesn't matter which holiday you're celebrating. I was raised in a Christian faith but certainly Christmas is only one holiday being celebrated. Other faiths enjoy their holidays - as well they should, and we should appreciate and honor - and we all together will celebrate the start of a New Year. Remember all of the positive opportunities that new year will offer and make a resolution to take advantage of one or two of them.
For those of you who are required to work on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, please be safe. Be aware of the joy and happiness but don't let it sucker you into a casual outlook that may cost you your life. We've lost too many brothers and sisters behind the badge this year; let's not add to that number during the holiday season.
Celebrate life, joy, happiness and prosperity. Put a card in your Seargent's inbox. Buy your Chief a cup of eggnog. Hang a wreath on your locker door. CELEBRATE. Appreciate life and another chance to be joyous.
Merry Christmas to everyone (and if you celebrate a different faith, please accept my best wishes in whatever manner is appropriate). Happy New Year!!!
Stay safe. See you next year.
