At this time of year when we count our blessings, I’d like to express my appreciation for our local community.
As an employee assistance counselor for the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege to work with the employees of the city of Durango, La Plata County, Fort Lewis College, Mercy Regional Medical Center, and many smaller companies. I have walked alongside them as they went through seasons in their lives, sharing their joys, losses and challenges.
These are the unsung heroes who keep our little berg humming, the worker bees who keep our utilities running, pick up our trash, deliver our mail, scrape the snow off our roads, and treat those who struggle with depression, anxiety and addictions. They maintain our trails and parks. Some work swing shifts to care for and protect us and our homes.
The EMTs, firefighters, law enforcement officers, nurses, physicians and support staff work around the clock. They and their families sacrifice quality time together, accommodating 24/7 coverage. In the course of their work days and nights, they are often exposed to trauma, which takes an additional toll on them.
It’s easy to take for granted the everyday contributions our neighbors make that maintain our cozy lives here in La Plata county. Most of us only notice when something goes wrong. Instead, look for what’s going right – and take the time to express your gratitude to those who show up, day in and day out, serving our community.
Jenny Treanor
Bayfield
