Witnessing Unity

The Seminole Indian Scout Cemetery Association had a booth at the Kinney County Frontier Christmas Celebration. We were situated in a great location that allowed us to see everything that was going on, and everyone had to walk by our booth as they entered the Civic Center. From this vantage point, I was able to witness something that truly warmed my heart. I was able to witness unity in real time.

The night before, I went to the Christmas caroling and town lighting ceremony held at the court house, and that was where I got my first inkling of how powerfully and readily this community comes together. Everyone who was there was there to celebrate the beginning of this magical season, so there was no time to let the cold or rainy weather slow anyone down, and I don’t believe that I heard one person complain about the change of plans because of the weather. Instead, everyone simply went along with the change without complaint because they wanted to be a part of something that was meaningful and memorable.

When I got home on Friday, I was full of excitement because I couldn’t wait to see what Saturday would bring. On Saturday morning, there were so many people that I was overwhelmed for a bit. And these people showed up with huge smiles on their faces. They were armed with hugs and kinds words.

As the day continued, I had many pleasant conversations and interactions. When there was a lull, I played the observer and watched as families walked about. Young children seemed to rule the day as they excitedly dragged their parents from one booth to another. And this day truly was a celebration of the children and young adults of this community and their innocence and spirits.

The drama club did an amazing job. Their performance emboldened everyone who witnessed their talents and reminded us of why we had gathered in the first place. This group brought the house down.

Before the toy giveaway, we were told that last Wednesday, only twenty-four toys had been received, so those responsible for the toy drive got on their phones and worked very hard to make sure that they pulled this off for the children of our community.

As the kids received their toys, their faces were filled with gratitude and pure delight. There is nothing more heart-warming than that, and their happiness had the effect of spreading to the adults who were watching them as they received their gifts. Like the children, I saw many adults who were in awe at and grateful for the gifts their children received.

I’ve said this many times, but I think it always bears repeating. I am so proud to live in a community where we can come together to celebrate and support each other. Our local vendors were able to display their abundant talent and hard work. The children were able to see how important they are to everyone here, and I was able to witness, once again, how connected and unified we all are. 

Note:  This blog was published as an article in the 12/08/17 edition of the Kinney County Post​.