“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy. What a fantastic quote. As we head out to the break, please keep these words in mind. “To live by them,” for me, also means to live by example. Treating others the way we want to be treated, showing compassion for those suffering, and showing kindness is a great way to give back to others, even if they don’t know us. Let’s start this season in the best way possible. I encourage you to take some good rest. I am tired…And I hope you don’t mind me sharing so openly with you…but it is true. I am hoping to get a good rest but maybe do some work, too. The rest of today’s Walking the Beat is from last year’s edition. I thought it was appropriate to share again what I wrote last year, as it is still current.
“What are your plans for the break? Well, I will repeat it: spend time with your loved ones. Hug those around you. Don’t wait until it is too late to do it. A smile can change many things. “What does this have to do with Safety and Security, Gabe?” Well, a lot. How we treat others influences their behavior and their actions. When we reach out to those struggling, we are probably helping someone make a better choice. Kindness is the secret… That’s why I encourage this more than anything else.
Now, in a more practical way, please take all the right measures to stay safe during the Thanksgiving break. If you are going out of town and you are expecting some packages to be delivered, make sure to let somebody know. Keep the front lights of your house on during the night. Tell a neighbor you’ll be away. Whenever you go somewhere, don’t leave valuables in your car. Be always aware of your surroundings, and report to the police any suspicious activity you witness. Remember to always be the best witness you can be.
I am thankful for you…I am thankful for the opportunity to be here at STEM. I am thankful for your students and the story we are writing together. I am thankful for the good days and the bad ones, too.
Let’s keep working hard to keep our students safe! Let me tell you again how thankful I am for having the opportunity to be part of your student’s story. If you have questions, please email me at gabe.uribe@stemk12.org, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Stay warm, and enjoy the break! Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
GO SPARTANS!
Be safe!
Deputy Gabe