Why should we be complacent?

Leave things alone; I like them the way they are. If the wheel ain’t broke don’t fix it. We’ve never done it that way before.  You can’t teach this old dog a new trick.

Have we all heard these supposed words of wisdom before?  Do they help or hurt for a long-term consideration of our well-being?

Look around.  My modern-day heroes are those neighbors embracing the maxim “This is a great community, but let us reach out to others and make it even better.” To do so, we have to move outside our comfort areas and extend helping hands. Once we absorb this attitude, we will be a catalyst for positive change.

Modern-day heroes in our area who never receive enough accolades but are difference makers include Warren County Rescue Squad, coaches for ball and dance, etc., Park Theater and Warren County theater groups, court-appointed special advocates, Child Advocacy Center, Families in Crisis, Young Men United, Pregnancy Care Center, Caring Hearts, Meals on Wheels and many other service groups.  Encourage our elected officials to invest in these difference makers.

A significant characteristic of these groups:  They just accomplish their objectives without wanting the “ol' pat on the back."  Positive difference makers they are, without considering personal costs. We are happy to call them neighbors.

In the book of Luke in the Bible, the scripture states that the two greatest commands are to love God and love your neighbor.  Sometimes, we do not place enough emphasis on the “love your neighbor." This is easily changed with the right attitude adjustment.

Since our calendar shows now is the time to express our love to that special valentine, why not expand the thought with expressing our love to our neighbors.

I love my community!

Standard contributor Don Alexander can be contacted at dalexander@southernstandard.com