Doing What You Can

Jul 14, 2016

Years ago he sat in my first grade class –

twinkly eyes, mischief all over, and I taught him.

I also protected him from any possible danger day after day

giving him a safe environment to learn.

Today he serves as a police officer in our community

and day after day he risks his life to  protect me.

Strange how life can change.

All around us threats of violence churn. Blood has been shed. Lives lost.

My heart has been burdened with pain

That night I tossed and turned.

The next morning very early I spoke with my girls and presented an idea.

A chicken sandwich for every office along with a handwritten note.

“How many officers are there?” I asked my boy – now an officer.

He is only one. There are a number of my former students serving as police officers.

Daily risking their precious lives.

“42” he texted back.

Suddenly everything began to fall into place.

The drive to Chick- fil-a was fast while we talked over our plan.

Order 42 chicken sandwiches and then go to the nearby store to pick up index cards and markers.

Together we sat at the table writing a simple message.

White card with black lettering. Simple. Bold. Strong.

“Thanks for all you do. You matter. From the Brani family.”

Simple but there are no words to language how much care went into each card.

I thought of my boys and girls grown now and carrying burdens of our world.

Once so innocent and filled with laughter.

Today day after day

risking their lives for me

for you.

My heart overflows with thanksgiving for each officer.

They take their place in an imperfect world and do what they can.

They serve

and sometimes lay down their lives.

What price do you place on that?

Blood shed.

But there was another Who poured out His blood saying

“Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”

A Light brightly shining proclaiming grace, forgiveness and peace to a fallen world.

The aroma of those 42 chicken sandwiches filled with air as we taped a personal note on each one.

Excitement mounted as we drove to the police station

and walked inside carrying the large container.

Once more

there were no words to express.

Eyes met eyes as we explained to the officer what we had done.

Yes, he was another boy grown into manhood whom I knew from years ago.

We left that morning

knowing that we had done what we could

and that it was only the beginning.

Simply saying Thank You

where there are no words to say how grateful we are for their sacrifice.

Men and women.

Someone’s husband, wife, father, mother, uncle, aunt, etc.

All of us connected. Moving together through this life.

Love is the only answer.

Let’s change our world. Will  you join me?

 

 

you matter 1you matter

4 Comments

  1. Melissa

    What a wonderful example! Thank you for sharing, Sharon!

    Reply
    • SharonBrani

      How kind of you to read and leave a comment, Melissa. You are a blessing. Prayers for you as you write.

      Reply
  2. Beckie Lindsey

    Little things can actually be BIG things when they’re done in love! Thank you for this beautiful post.
    Beckie from Spotlight, beckielindsey16.com

    Reply
    • SharonBrani

      Thank you, Beckie. Thank you for seeing the heart behind the actions. Your words encourage and refresh me. Together we serve.

      Reply

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