Day 42 of 365

Day 42 was a special experience.

I had the privilege of attending Gateway Tech 25 years ago. I graduated from their Police Science program and picked up a few essential tools for life in the process. It wasn't all related to law enforcement, it was also lessons in perseverance and the dedication involved in reaching those goals. I did receive a scholarship. It was a small one but at the time it allowed me to pay for books and materials necessary to complete my classwork.

Why does this matter? It matters because I worked full time in the summer and part time during the school year and I still needed financial aid. I wasn't lazy. I was a middle class kid who happened to be the last child to attend school. The system didn't give me anything. I had to earn it all, even the scholarship.

After I graduated I went back a few times to visit the campus and it seemed like that experience was so far removed from my current reality.

I know... what the heck does this have to do with my 42nd day experience?

I'm getting there.

Today I went back again but this time it was for an anniversary party. The Gateway Foundation is celebrating 40 years of making ends come together for students like me. My in-laws are a part of this organization and I was proud to stand in the culinary school that they and the foundation made happen. It's how all of us can give opportunities to students who might not be able to make it all come together on their own. It's not a handout, it's a hand up and we should be doing this more. You don't have to travel out of your own county to help people. The need is right in your own back yard.

Day 42 was another unexpected lesson in charity and responsibility.

Love & Light